How do I determine if a Tree is Protected before removing it
Trees play a crucial role in our environment by providing shade, fresh air and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However there are a few trees that aren’t identical and some are granted an additional status of protection, making it illegal to perform any work without permission. If you’re considering having a tree removed it is crucial to be aware of the protection status of the tree in question, and the steps you need to take to comply with the laws. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of discovering whether trees are safe and exactly what steps you will need be doing to make 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 legal restrictions, and it’s illegal to do work on a protected tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. There are two types of protection that a tree might have: statutory protection and preservation orders.
Legal protection
Under legal protection trees are protected under law and are in the hands of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are enacted 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 like TPOs in that they are set up from the Secretary of State responsible for Environment. Trees with preservation orders are considered to have an exceptional worth and are therefore protected from any kind of work, including the felling.
How do I know whether a tree is safe?
To determine whether a tree is protected, you will need to determine if the tree is under a TPO or preservation orders. It is done by contacting the authorities in your area and asking them check for records.
TPO search
To search for the TPO, you can contact the Tree and Woodland Officer at your local authority, who will inform you whether the tree is in the protection. They will also be able to advise you on 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 secretary of state for Environment. They can tell you if the tree is protected and give you the necessary information and guidance.
FAQs:
What is the consequence if I do work on a protected tree without permission?
If you work on a protected tree without the proper permits, you could be facing substantial fines and even imprisonment.
Can I appeal to a TPO and/or preservation order?
You can appeal an appeal of a TPO or preservation decision if you believe it is unjustified. You will have to prove your argument and demonstrate why you believe that the TPO or preservation order isn’t necessary.
Can I remove a protected tree?
It is against the law to remove trees that are protected without permission from the appropriate authorities. If you require the tree to be removed then you must apply for permission and provide evidence to support your case.
Conclusion
In the end, determining if the tree is protected is a crucial step to ensure that any tree work carried out legally. If you know the various types of protection, and knowing how to identify them it is possible to be sure that you are acting within the law and are protecting the trees that you are responsible for. If you’re not sure about the status of protection for trees, we suggest consulting an experienced tree expert, such as Penrith Tree Lopping. Our arborists are experienced and will be able to advise you on the protection status of your trees, and will guide you through the required steps to ensure that you are acting within the legal guidelines. With our experience and dedication to provide high-quality tree services, we can help you preserve the beauty and worth of your trees. Contact us today at 0480 024 203 to schedule a consultation, and let us assist you to keep your trees safe and healthy.