What Makes a Tree Protected and How to Find Out
Trees play an important contribution to our ecosystem as they provide shade, clean air, and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However, not all trees are alike and some have extra protection status, which makes it illegal to perform any activity without authorization. If you’re thinking of having a tree removed it is crucial to be aware of the status of protection for the tree being considered and what steps you’ll need to take to ensure compliance with the legal requirements. This article we’ll help you understand the process of discovering whether trees are safe and exactly what steps you have to do to ensure that you comply with the law.
What exactly is a tree that is protected?
A protected tree can be subject to specific legal restrictions It is illegal to works on a tree without the required permissions. There are two types of protection that trees might have: preservation and protection orders that are statutory.
Legal protection
Under legal protection, trees are protected by law and are subject to Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are issued by local authorities to safeguard trees of significant value to the public and to ensure that they do not get destroyed or damaged.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are similar to TPOs but are issued by the Secretary of State for the Environment. Trees with preservation orders are considered to be of exceptional worth and are therefore protected from any kind of work, including the felling.
How do I know whether a tree is safe?
To determine if the tree is protected, you need to check if it is under a TPO or preservation orders. This can be accomplished by contacting your authorities in your area and asking them search for records.
TPO search
If you want to find an TPO You can reach an Tree and Woodland Officer of your local authority. They will inform you whether the tree is protected. They will also be able to guide you on the next steps to follow if the tree is in a protected area.
Preservation order search
If you are looking for a preservation order you must contact secretary of state for Environment. They will be able to inform you whether the tree is protected and give you the necessary information and guidance.
FAQs:
What happens if I carry out work on a protected tree without permission?
If you do work on a protected tree without the appropriate permits, you could be facing significant fines, and possibly even jail time.
Can I contest to a TPO and/or preservation order?
Yes, you are able to appeal a TPO or preservation decision if you believe it’s not justifiable. But, you’ll need to provide evidence to support your argument and demonstrate that you believe that the TPO or the preservation decision isn’t necessary.
Can I remove a protected tree?
It is against the law to remove a protected tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. If you want the tree to be removed it is necessary to request permission and submit the evidence needed to prove your case.
Conclusion
To conclude, knowing if the tree is protected is a vital step in ensuring that tree work is legally completed. Understanding the different kinds of protection and how to identify them, you can ensure that you’re following the law and protecting the trees in your care. If you’re not sure about the protection status of a tree, we recommend consulting a reputable tree specialist such as Brisbane Tree Removal Experts. Our arborists are experienced and will be able to inform you about the protection status of your trees, and will guide you through the required steps to ensure that you are acting within the legal guidelines. With our knowledge and dedication to providing high-quality tree services, we can help you keep the beauty and value that your trees have. Contact us today by phone at 0485 882 829 to schedule a consultation, and let us guide you on how to keep your trees safe and healthy.
