A Beginner's Guide to Understanding Protected Trees
Trees play an essential role in our environment as they provide shade, clean air and aesthetic value our surroundings. However they are not all equal and some carry extra protection status, which makes it illegal to carry out any work without obtaining permission. If you’re thinking of having a tree removed it is crucial to be aware of the protection status of the tree being considered and the steps you have to take to ensure compliance with the law. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of discovering whether trees are secured and the steps you have take to be sure you comply with the law.
What exactly is a tree that is protected?
A protected tree is one that has been subjected to certain laws and regulations, and it’s illegal to do works on a tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. There are two types of protection that trees might have: statutory protection and preservation orders.
Protection under the law
As a matter of statutory protection trees are protected under law and are subject to Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are issued by local authorities to safeguard 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 put in place from the Secretary of State responsible for Environment. Trees with preservation orders are considered to have exceptional worth and are therefore protected from any work, including the felling.
How can I tell whether a tree is safe?
To determine whether the tree is protected, you will need to verify if it’s under an TPO or preservation order. This can be accomplished by contacting the municipal authority, and asking them to look up their archives.
TPO search
If you want to find a TPO to locate one, contact your local Tree and Woodland Officer of your local authority, who will be able to tell you whether the tree is protected. They’ll also be able to advise you on the next steps to do if your tree is protected.
Preservation order search
In order to search for a preservation order you will need to contact Secretary of State, Department of the Environment. They can tell you whether the tree is in the protected zone and give you the necessary information and guidance.
FAQs:
What happens if I conduct work on a tree that is protected without permission?
If you do work on a protected tree without obtaining the necessary permits, you could be facing massive fines or even prison.
Can I appeal a TPO or preservation order?
Yes, you are able to appeal a TPO or preservation or TPO if you feel it is unjustified. But, you’ll need to prove your argument and demonstrate your argument as to why you believe that the TPO or preservation order isn’t necessary.
Can I take down a protected tree?
It is against the law to remove a protected tree without obtaining permission from the appropriate authorities. If you want the tree to be removed then you must apply for permission and provide proof to back your claim.
Conclusion
To conclude, knowing if a tree is protected is an essential step to ensure that tree work is legally completed. If you know the various types of protection and the best way to check for them it is possible to be sure that you are acting within the law and protecting the trees you care for. If you’re unsure of the nature of the protection of trees, we suggest consulting an experienced tree expert like Local Tree Services Brisbane. Our team of experienced arborists can advise you about the protection status of your trees, and will guide you through the steps to ensure that you are complying with the legal guidelines. With our knowledge and dedication to providing top-quality tree care, we can help you preserve the beauty and value that your trees have. Contact us now by phone at 0485 882 830 to schedule a appointment, and let us guide you on how to keep your trees protected and healthy.