The significance of protecting Trees and how to identify They Are Protected Trees
Trees play a crucial contribution to our ecosystem as they provide shade, clean air and aesthetic value our surroundings. However, not all trees are identical and some are granted an additional status of protection, making it illegal to perform any activity without authorization. If you are considering having a tree removed it is essential to know the protection status of the tree in question, and the steps you have to follow to be in compliance with the law. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of discovering whether the tree is secured and the steps you will need to do to ensure that you comply with the law.
What exactly is a tree that is protected?
A protected tree is one that is subject to specific legal restrictions It is illegal to work on such a tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. There are two kinds of protection that trees could be protected by - statutory protection and preservation orders.
Legal protection
Under statutory protection, trees are protected by 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 do not get damaged or destroyed.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are similar to TPOs , but are issued from the Secretary of State responsible for Environment. The trees that are protected by preservation orders are considered to have an exceptional worth and are therefore protected from any kind of work, including cutting down.
How can I tell when a tree is in danger?
To determine whether trees are protected, you need to verify if it’s under an TPO or preservation orders. This can be done by contacting your local authority and asking them to check their archives.
TPO search
To search for a TPO You can reach your local Tree or Woodland Official from your local authority. They can inform you whether the tree is protected. They’ll also be able advise you on the next steps to take if the tree is protected.
Preservation order search
To search for a preservation permit, you will need to contact Secretary of State, Department of the Environment. They will be able to determine 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 do work on a protected tree without the proper authorizations, you could be subject to significant fines, and possibly even jail time.
Can I appeal an TPO and/or preservation order?
You can appeal an appeal of a TPO or preservation decision if you feel it is unjustified. But, you’ll need to prove your case and show that it is not necessary to appeal the TPO or the preservation decision is not necessary.
Can I take down a protected tree?
It is unlawful to take down a protected tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. If you require the tree to be removed, you will need to seek permission from the council and provide the evidence needed to prove your case.
Conclusion
In the end, determining if trees are protected is a vital step in ensuring that any tree work is legally completed. Understanding the different kinds of protection and how to determine if they are protected, you can ensure that you’re in compliance with the law and protecting the trees that you are responsible for. If you’re unsure of the nature of the protection of trees, we suggest seeking professional advice from an experienced tree expert such as Penrith Aborist. Our team of experienced arborists will be able to advise you regarding the status of protection of your trees and guide you through the required steps to ensure you are following the law. With our knowledge and dedication to providing high-quality tree services we will help you maintain the beauty and value for your tree. Call us now by calling 0480 024 267 to schedule a consultation, and let us assist you to ensure that your trees are protected and healthy.