The importance of Proper Tree Identification: How do you know whether a Tree is protected

Trees play an important part in the environment as they provide shade, clean air, and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However there are a few trees that aren’t equal and some carry extra protection status, which makes it illegal to perform any work without permission. If you’re thinking of having a tree removed it is crucial to be aware of the status of protection for the tree you’re considering and the steps you have to take to comply with the law. This article we’ll walk you through the process of determining whether the tree is secured and the steps you will need take to be sure you are acting within the law.
What is a protected tree?
A protected tree can be subject to specific legal restrictions, and it’s illegal to work on such a tree without having the appropriate permissions. There are two kinds of protection that a tree may have - preservation orders and protection orders.
Statutory protection
Under statutory protection trees are protected by laws and subject to Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are issued by local authorities to safeguard trees of significant public value and ensure they are not damaged or destroyed.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are similar to TPOs , but are put in place from the Secretary of State responsible for Environment. Trees with preservation orders are considered to have an exceptional value and are shielded from all work, which includes felling.
How do I know whether a tree is safe?
To determine whether the tree is protected, you will need to determine if the tree is under the protection of a TPO or preservation orders. This can be accomplished by contacting the local authority and asking them to search their records.
TPO search
To search for a TPO, you can contact an Tree and Woodland officer at your local authority. They can inform you if the tree is protected. They’ll also be able to advise you on the next steps you should follow if the tree is protected.
Preservation order search
If you are looking for a preservation permit, you’ll need to call secretary of state for Environment. They will determine if the tree is protected and will provide the information you require and direction.
FAQs:
What happens if I conduct work on a tree that is protected without permission?
If you work on a protected tree without the appropriate permits, you could be facing significant fines, and possibly even jail time.
Can I appeal a TPO or preservation order?
Yes, you can appeal an appeal of a TPO or preservation decision if you believe that it is not justified. However, you will need to prove your argument and demonstrate that the TPO or the preservation decision isn’t needed.
Can I take down a protected tree?
It is illegal to remove a protected tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. If you want removal of the tree, you will need to seek permission from the council and provide the evidence needed to prove your case.
Conclusion
To conclude, knowing if the tree is protected is a crucial step to ensure that any tree work is legally completed. Understanding the different kinds of protection and how to identify them it is possible to be sure that you are acting within the law and safeguarding the trees that you are responsible for. If you are unsure about the status of protection for a tree, we recommend seeking advice from an experienced tree expert, such as The Hills Tree Services. Our experienced arborists can advise you on the protection status of your trees and guide you through the required steps to ensure that you are complying with the legal guidelines. With our expertise and commitment to providing top-quality tree care we will help you keep the beauty and worth for your tree. Call us now by phone at 0480 024 203 to schedule a consultation and let us help you keep your trees safe and healthy.