A Beginning's Guide to Understanding Protected Trees
Trees play an essential contribution to our ecosystem, providing shade, clean air, and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However they are not all identical and some are granted extra protection status, which makes it illegal to do any activity without authorization. If you are considering having a tree removed it is essential to know the status of protection for the tree you’re considering and the steps you need to take to ensure compliance with the laws. This article we will walk you through the steps to determine if trees are protected and what you will need be doing to make sure you comply with the law.
What is a protected tree?
A protected tree is one that is subject to specific laws and regulations It is illegal to carry out work on such a tree without having the appropriate permissions. There are two kinds of protection that a tree could be protected by - statutory protection and preservation orders.
Protection under the law
Under legal protection, trees are protected by laws and under the control of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are put in place by local authorities to safeguard trees of significant value to the public and to ensure that they do not get damaged or destroyed.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are like TPOs in that they are issued from the Secretary of State responsible for Environment. Trees with preservation orders are considered to be of exceptional worth and are therefore protected from any kind of work, including felling.
What can I do to determine if a tree is protected?
To determine whether a tree is protected, you need to determine if the tree is in the process of being subject to an TPO or preservation orders. It is done by contacting the authorities in your area and asking them search their records.
TPO search
If you want to find an TPO, you can contact an Tree or Woodland Official at your local authority, who will inform you whether the tree is in the protection. They’ll also be able advise you about the next steps to do if your tree is protected.
Preservation order search
If you are looking for a preservation order you will need to contact Secretary of State, Department of the Environment. They can tell you if the tree is protected and provide you with the information you require and direction.
FAQs:
What is the consequence if I do work on a tree that is protected without permission?
If you work on a protected tree without obtaining the necessary permissions, you could face massive fines or even prison.
Can I appeal a TPO and/or preservation order?
Yes, you are able to appeal an appeal of a TPO or preservation decision if that it is not justified. You will have be able to present evidence to back your claim and explain that the TPO or order to preserve is not necessary.
Can I cut down a tree that is protected tree?
It is against the law to remove trees that are protected without permission from the appropriate authorities. If you need the tree to be removed, you will need to seek permission from the council and provide proof to back your claim.
Conclusion
In conclusion, discovering whether a tree is protected is a vital step in ensuring that any tree work carried out legally. If you know the various types of protection and how to determine if they are protected, you can ensure that you’re in compliance with the law and protecting the trees that you are responsible for. If you’re not sure about the protection status of a tree, we recommend seeking professional advice from an experienced tree expert, such as The Hills Tree Services. Our arborists are experienced and will be able to inform you on the protection status of your trees, and will guide you through the required steps to ensure that you are acting within the laws. With our experience and dedication to provide high-quality tree services, we can help you keep the beauty and worth of your trees. Contact us today at 0480 024 203 to schedule a consultation and let us help you keep your trees safe and healthy.