The importance of protected Trees and How to Identify Them

Trees play a crucial contribution to our ecosystem, providing shade, clean air and aesthetic value our surroundings. However, not all trees are equal and some carry additional protection status, making it illegal to carry out any activity without authorization. If you’re thinking of having a tree removed, it’s essential to understand the status of protection for the tree being considered, and the steps you have to take to comply with the law. In this article, we will walk you through the process of discovering whether trees are protected and what you have be doing to make sure you are acting within the law.
What exactly is a tree that is protected?
A protected tree can be subject to specific legal controls and it is unlawful to works on a tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. There are two types of protection a tree might have: preservation orders and protection orders.
Legal protection
Under legal protection trees are protected under law and are in the hands of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are put in place by local authorities to protect trees with a significant public value and to ensure that they are not damaged or destroyed.
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 have exceptional value and are shielded from any kind of work, including felling.
How do I know whether a tree is safe?
To determine if a tree is protected, you will need to check if it is under the protection of a TPO or preservation order. It is done by contacting the local authority and asking them to look up for records.
TPO search
If you want to find the TPO to locate one, contact the Tree and Woodland Officer at the local authority. They will inform you whether the tree is protected. They’ll also be able advise you about the next steps to take if the tree is in a protected area.
Preservation order search
If you are looking for a preservation permit, you must contact secretary of state for Environment. They will be able to determine whether the tree is in the protected zone and will provide 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 tree that is protected without the proper permits, you could be facing significant fines, and possibly even jail time.
Can I contest an TPO and/or preservation order?
You can appeal to a TPO or preservation order if that it is not justified. But, you’ll need to provide evidence to support your claim and explain why you believe that the TPO or preservation order is not necessary.
Can I take down a protected tree?
It is illegal to remove protected trees without the required permissions. If you need 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 a tree is protected is a vital step in ensuring that tree work is carried out legally. If you know the various types of protection, and knowing how to identify them, you can ensure that you are acting within the law and are protecting the trees in your care. If you’re not sure about the protection status of a tree, we recommend consulting an expert in tree care, such as Eastern Suburbs Tree Removal. Our team of experienced arborists can advise you regarding the status of protection of your trees, and will guide you through the necessary steps to ensure you are acting within the legal guidelines. With our experience and dedication to providing top-quality tree care, we can help you keep the beauty and value that your trees have. Contact us today at 1300 636 143 to schedule a consultation, and let us help you ensure that your trees are protected and healthy.