A Beginner's Guide to Understanding Protected Trees
Trees play a crucial role in our environment, providing shade, clean air and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However, not all trees are identical and some are granted an additional status of protection, making it illegal to carry out any work without permission. If you are considering having a tree removed, it’s essential to understand the protection status of the tree being considered and what steps you’ll need to take to ensure compliance with the law. The following article we will help you understand the process of determining whether trees are secured and the steps you need to do to ensure that you are acting within the law.
What is a protected tree?
A protected tree is one that is subject to specific legal restrictions and it is unlawful to work on a protected tree without the required permissions. There are two kinds of protection a tree might have: preservation and protection orders that are statutory.
Protection under the law
Under legal protection trees are protected by law and 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 do not get damaged or destroyed.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are similar to TPOs , but are issued through the secretary of state for the Environment. Preservation orders for trees are considered to have exceptional worth and are therefore protected from any kind of work, including felling.
What can I do to determine when a tree is in danger?
To determine if a tree is protected, you must to verify if it’s in the process of being subject to a TPO or preservation order. This can be accomplished by contacting your municipal authority, and asking them to check their records.
TPO search
To find an TPO, you can contact the Tree and Woodland officer of the local authority. They can inform you whether the tree is in the protection. They will also be able to guide you about 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 the Secretary of State for the Environment. They will be able to inform you whether the tree is protected and provide you with the information you require and direction.
FAQs:
What happens if I conduct work on a tree that is protected without permission?
If you do work on a protected tree without the proper permissions, you could face massive fines or even prison.
Can I contest to a TPO Or preservation or TPO?
Yes, you can appeal an appeal of a TPO or preservation decision if it is unjustified. But, you’ll need to provide evidence to support your claim and explain your argument as to why the TPO or order to preserve isn’t necessary.
Can I cut down a tree that is protected tree?
It is illegal to remove a protected tree without obtaining permission from the appropriate authorities. If you require the tree to be removed it is necessary to seek permission from the council and provide proof to back your claim.
Conclusion
In conclusion, discovering whether trees are protected is a vital aspect in ensuring that any tree work legally completed. Understanding the different kinds of protection and how to identify them, you can ensure that you are acting within the law and safeguarding the trees that you are responsible for. If you’re not sure about the nature of the protection of a tree, we recommend seeking professional advice from a reputable tree specialist like Hawkesbury Tree Lopping. Our arborists are experienced and will be able to advise you regarding the status of protection of your trees, and will guide you through the required steps to ensure that you are complying with the legal guidelines. With our knowledge and dedication to providing high-quality tree services, we can help you keep the beauty and worth of your trees. Call us now by calling 0480 024 203 to schedule a consultation and let us assist you to keep your trees safe and healthy.