Protecting Trees: A Guide to Understanding Protected Status
Trees play a crucial contribution to our ecosystem by providing shade, fresh air, and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However they are not all alike and some have additional protection status, making it illegal to perform any work without permission. If you’re considering having a tree removed it is essential to know the status of protection for the tree you’re considering and what steps you’ll need to take to comply with the laws. In this article, we will help you understand the steps to determine if a tree is secured and the steps you need be doing to make sure you are acting within the law.
What exactly is a tree that is protected?
A protected tree is one that has been subjected to certain legal restrictions, and it’s illegal to{ carry out|| do} work on a protected tree without having the appropriate permissions. There are two kinds of protection a tree could be protected by - preservation orders and protection orders.
Legal protection
As a matter of the law trees are protected under the law, and they are under the control of 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 similar to TPOs , but are put in place by the Secretary of State for the Environment. Preservation orders for trees are considered to have exceptional value and are shielded from any work, including cutting down.
What can I do to determine whether a tree is safe?
To determine if the tree is protected, you will need to determine if the tree is under an TPO or preservation order. This can be done by contacting the municipal authority, and asking them to check their archives.
TPO search
To find the TPO, you can contact an Tree and Woodland Officer at the local authority. They will be able to tell you whether the tree is in the protection. They’ll also be able advise you on the next steps you should take if the tree is protected.
Preservation order search
In order to search for a preservation order you must contact the Secretary of State for the Environment. They will tell you whether the tree is in the protected zone and provide you with the required information and guidelines.
FAQs:
What is the consequence if I do work on a tree that is protected without permission?
If you{ carry out|| do} work on a tree that is protected without the proper permits, you could be facing substantial fines and even imprisonment.
Can I appeal a TPO Or preservation or TPO?
You can appeal a TPO or preservation order if you believe it’s not justifiable. However, you will need to provide evidence to support your argument and demonstrate your argument as to why you believe that the TPO or preservation order is not necessary.
Can I remove a protected tree?
It is unlawful to take down protected trees without the required permissions. If you want the tree to be removed, you will need to seek permission from the council and provide evidence to support your case.
Conclusion
To conclude, knowing if the tree is protected is a vital step in ensuring that any tree work legally completed. If you know the various types of protection and how to check for them it is possible to be sure that you’re in compliance with the law and safeguarding the trees that you are responsible for. If you’re unsure of the status of protection for a tree, we recommend seeking advice from a reputable tree specialist like Blacktown Tree Cutting. Our experienced arborists will be able to advise you regarding the status of protection of your trees, and will guide you through the{ necessary|| required} steps to ensure that you are acting within the laws. 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 at 0480 024 203 to schedule a consultation and let us help you ensure that your trees are protected and healthy.