The significance of protecting Trees and how to identify Them

Trees play an essential role in our environment, providing shade, clean air, and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However they are not all equal and some carry extra protection status, which makes it illegal to do any work without obtaining permission. If you’re thinking of 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 comply with the legal requirements. The following article we will walk you through the process of discovering whether a tree is protected and what you have be doing to make sure that you comply with the law.
What exactly is a tree that is protected?
A protected tree can be subject to specific legal restrictions, and it’s illegal to work on such a tree without the required permissions. There are two kinds of protection that a tree could be protected by - preservation orders and protection orders.
Legal protection
Under the law trees are protected by the law, and they are in the hands of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are put in place by local authorities to protect trees of significant public value and to ensure that they are not damaged or destroyed.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are similar to TPOs but are put in place by the Secretary of State for the Environment. The trees that are protected by preservation orders are considered to be of exceptional worth and are therefore protected from any work, including felling.
How can I tell when a tree is in danger?
To determine whether a tree is protected, you must to check if it is subject to an TPO or preservation order. It is done by contacting your municipal authority, and asking them to check their records.
TPO search
To find the TPO, you can contact an Tree or Woodland Official from your local authority. They can inform you if the tree is protected. They’ll also be able advise you about the next steps to take if the tree is protected.
Preservation order search
To search for a preservation order you will need to contact secretary of state for Environment. They will be able to tell you whether the tree is in the protected zone and will provide the information you require and direction.
FAQs:
What happens if I carry out 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 substantial fines and even imprisonment.
Can I contest to a TPO and/or preservation order?
Yes, you can appeal an appeal of a TPO or preservation decision if you feel that it is not justified. You will have to provide evidence to support your claim and explain why it is not necessary to appeal the TPO or the preservation decision is not necessary.
Can I take down a protected tree?
It is against the law to remove a protected tree without obtaining the required permissions. If you need the tree to be removed, you will need to seek permission from the council and provide evidence to support your case.
Conclusion
To conclude, knowing if a tree is protected is a vital step to ensure that tree work is carried out legally. Understanding the different kinds of protection and how to check for them to ensure you’re in compliance with the law and are protecting the trees that you are responsible for. If you are unsure about the status of protection for trees, we suggest seeking professional advice from a reputable tree specialist, such as Tree Services Brisbane. Our experienced arborists will be able to inform you on the protection status of your trees and guide you through the necessary steps to make sure you’re complying with the laws. With our experience and dedication to provide high-quality tree services, we can help you keep the beauty and value for your tree. Contact us today at 0485 882 832 to schedule a consultation and let us help you keep your trees safe and healthy.