What Makes a Tree Protected and How Do I Find Out

Trees play a crucial role in our environment as they provide shade, clean air and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However they are not all alike and some have extra protection status, which makes it illegal to perform 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 what steps you’ll need to follow to be in compliance with the law. The following article we’ll walk you through the steps to determine if the tree is safe and exactly what steps you have take to be sure that you are acting within the law.
What exactly is a tree that is protected?
A protected tree is one that is subject to specific legal controls It is illegal to do work on such a tree without having the appropriate permissions. There are two kinds of protection that trees may have - statutory protection and preservation orders.
Legal protection
As a matter of the law trees are protected under law and are in the hands of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are issued by local authorities 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. Trees with preservation orders are considered to have an exceptional value and are protected from any kind of work, including felling.
How do I know if a tree is protected?
To determine whether trees are protected, you must to determine if the tree is under an TPO or preservation orders. This can be accomplished by contacting the authorities in your area and asking them check their archives.
TPO search
To search for a TPO, you can contact an Tree and Woodland Officer at your local authority, who will be able to tell you whether the tree is protected. They will also be able advise 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 permit, you’ll need to call secretary of state for Environment. They will inform you whether the tree is in the protected zone and will provide the required information and guidelines.
FAQs:
What happens if I conduct work on a protected tree without permission?
If you work on a protected tree without the proper permissions, you could face substantial fines and even imprisonment.
Can I contest an TPO Or preservation or TPO?
You can appeal an appeal of a TPO or preservation decision if you feel it’s not justifiable. However, you will need to prove your argument and demonstrate why you believe that the TPO or the preservation decision isn’t needed.
Can I take down a protected tree?
It is against the law to remove a protected tree without obtaining the required permissions. If you want the tree to be removed then you must apply for permission and provide proof to back your claim.
Conclusion
In the end, determining if a tree is protected is a crucial step in ensuring that any tree work is legally completed. Understanding the different kinds of protection and how to determine if they are protected it is possible to be sure that you’re following the law and protecting the trees that you are responsible for. If you’re not sure about the protection status of the tree you are in charge of, we suggest seeking professional advice from a reputable tree specialist like Penrith Tree Pruning. Our experienced arborists can advise you about the protection status of your trees, and will guide you through the steps to ensure you are acting within the laws. With our knowledge and dedication to provide high-quality tree services, we can help you keep the beauty and worth for your tree. Contact us today by phone at 0480 024 203 to schedule a consultation, and let us guide you on how to keep your trees safe and healthy.