The importance of protected Trees and How to Identify Them

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 identical and some are granted additional protection status, making it illegal to carry out any activity without authorization. If you’re considering having a tree removed, it’s essential to understand the protection status of the tree being considered and what steps you’ll need to take to ensure compliance with the law. The following article we will help you understand the process of determining whether the tree is secured and the steps you need to do to ensure you are following the law.
What exactly is a tree that is protected?
A protected tree has been subjected to certain legal restrictions and it is unlawful to do work on such a tree without the required permissions. There are two types of protection that a tree may have - statutory protection and preservation orders.
Legal protection
In the context of the law trees are protected by laws and under the control of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are put in place by local authorities to safeguard trees of significant value to the public and to ensure that they do not get destroyed or damaged.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are like TPOs in that they are put in place from the Secretary of State responsible for Environment. Preservation orders for trees are considered to be of exceptional value and are protected from any work, including felling.
How do I know if a tree is protected?
To determine if the tree is protected, you will need to check if it is subject to a TPO or preservation order. This can be accomplished by contacting the local authority and asking them to look up for records.
TPO search
To find the TPO, you can contact an Tree and Woodland officer of your local authority, who will be able to tell you whether the tree is in the protection. They will also be able to guide you on the next steps you should follow if the tree is in a protected area.
Preservation order search
In order to search for a preservation permit, you will need to contact Secretary of State, Department of the Environment. They will be able to inform you whether the tree is in the protected zone and provide you with the necessary information and guidance.
FAQs:
What is the consequence if I do work on a tree that is protected without permission?
If you carry out work on a protected tree without the proper permits, you could be facing substantial fines and even imprisonment.
Can I appeal an TPO Or preservation or TPO?
You can appeal an appeal of a TPO or preservation order if it is unjustified. However, you will need to provide evidence to support your claim and explain your argument as to why you believe that the TPO or the preservation decision isn’t needed.
Can I remove a protected tree?
It is illegal to remove trees that are protected without the necessary permissions. If you want removal of the tree it is necessary to apply for permission and provide the evidence needed to prove your case.
Conclusion
In conclusion, discovering whether a tree is protected is a vital step in ensuring that any tree work legally completed. By understanding the different types of protection and how to identify them, you can ensure that you are acting within the law and protecting the trees you care for. If you’re not sure about the status of protection for trees, we suggest seeking professional advice from a reputable tree specialist, such as Penrith Tree Lopping. Our experienced arborists will be able to inform you about the protection status of your trees, and will guide you through the required steps to ensure that you are acting within the laws. With our experience and dedication to providing high-quality tree services we will help you keep the beauty and worth for your tree. Call us now at 0480 024 203 to schedule a consultation and let us help you ensure that your trees are protected and healthy.