A Complete Guide for Identifying Protected Trees within The Hills Shire
Trees play an essential contribution to our ecosystem by providing shade, fresh air and aesthetic value our surroundings. However, not all trees are equal and some carry extra protection status, which makes it illegal to do any work without permission. If you’re considering having a tree removed it is crucial to be aware of the protection status of the tree in question, and the steps you have to take to ensure compliance with the law. The following article we will help you understand the process of determining whether trees are safe and exactly what steps you need be doing to make sure that you comply with the law.
What exactly is a tree that is protected?
A protected tree is one that is subject to specific laws and regulations It is illegal to do work on such a tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. There are two types of protection that trees might have: statutory protection and preservation orders.
Legal protection
In the context of statutory protection trees are protected by law and are subject to Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are enacted by local authorities in order to protect trees with a significant public value and to ensure that they are not destroyed or damaged.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are like TPOs in that they are issued by the Secretary of State for the Environment. Preservation orders for trees are considered to have an exceptional worth and are therefore protected from any kind of work, including felling.
How can I tell whether a tree is safe?
To determine if trees are protected, you will need to check if it is in the process of being subject to an TPO or preservation orders. This can be done by contacting the authorities in your area and asking them look up their archives.
TPO search
If you want to find the TPO, you can contact an Tree or Woodland Official from the local authority. They can inform you whether the tree is protected. They will also be able to guide you on the next steps you should do if your tree is in a protected area.
Preservation order search
To search for a preservation permit, you’ll need to call Secretary of State, Department of the Environment. They will determine whether the tree is in the protected zone and provide you with the necessary information and guidance.
FAQs:
What happens if I carry out work on a protected tree without permission?
If you work on a protected tree without the appropriate permissions, you could face massive fines or even prison.
Can I contest a TPO Or preservation or TPO?
You can appeal a TPO or preservation decision if you believe that it is not justified. But, you’ll need to provide evidence to support your argument and demonstrate your argument as to why you believe that the TPO or preservation order isn’t needed.
Can I cut down a tree that is protected tree?
It is unlawful to take down a protected tree without obtaining the required permissions. If you need the tree to be removed it is necessary to seek permission from the council and provide evidence to support your case.
Conclusion
In conclusion, discovering whether the tree is protected is a vital step to ensure that any tree work carried out legally. If you know the various types of protection, and knowing how to check for them to ensure you are acting within the law and protecting the trees you care for. If you are unsure about the protection status of a tree, we recommend consulting an experienced tree expert, such as The Hills Tree Services. Our team of experienced arborists will be able to inform you about the protection status of your trees, and will guide you through the steps to ensure that you are acting within the law. With our experience and dedication to providing top-quality tree care, we can help you preserve the beauty and worth of your trees. Contact us today by phone at 0480 024 203 to schedule a consultation, and let us guide you on how to ensure that your trees are protected and healthy.