The Consequences of Destroying an encircled tree and how to Avoid them
Trees play an important part in the environment as they provide shade, clean air and aesthetic value our surroundings. However there are a few trees that aren’t identical and some are granted extra protection status, which makes it illegal to do any work without permission. If you’re considering having a tree removed, it’s essential to understand the protection status of the tree in question and the steps you need to take to comply with the laws. In this article, we will guide you through the process of determining whether the tree is secured and the steps you need be doing to make 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 laws and regulations It is illegal to carry out works on a tree without the required permissions. There are two kinds of protection a tree may have - statutory protection and preservation orders.
Statutory protection
In the context of the law trees are protected by law and are in the hands of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are issued by local authorities in order to protect trees of significant public value and ensure they are not damaged or destroyed.
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 have exceptional worth and are therefore protected from all work, which includes felling.
How can I tell when a tree is in danger?
To determine if trees are protected, you will need to check if it is under an TPO or preservation or protection order. This can be done by contacting your municipal authority, and asking them to check their archives.
TPO search
To find an TPO, you can contact the Tree or Woodland Official of the local authority. They will inform you if the tree is protected. They’ll also be able to guide you on the next steps to do if your 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 can inform you whether the tree is protected and provide you with the required information and guidelines.
FAQs:
What happens if I carry out work on a tree that is protected without permission?
If you work on a protected tree without the proper permissions, you could face substantial fines and even imprisonment.
Can I appeal a TPO Or preservation or TPO?
You can appeal a TPO or preservation order if you believe it is unjustified. You will have be able to present evidence to back your argument and demonstrate that the TPO or order to preserve isn’t needed.
Can I take down a protected tree?
It is illegal to remove protected trees without the necessary permissions. If you require the tree to be removed then you must seek permission from the council and provide evidence to support your case.
Conclusion
To conclude, knowing if a tree is protected is a vital aspect in ensuring that any tree work carried out legally. Understanding the different kinds of protection, and knowing how to determine if they are protected to ensure you are acting within the law and are protecting the trees in your care. If you’re unsure of the status of protection for a tree, we recommend seeking professional advice from an expert in tree care like Blacktown Tree Trimming. Our arborists are experienced and will be able to inform you on the protection status of your trees, and will guide you through the necessary steps to make sure you’re acting within the law. With our experience and dedication to provide high-quality tree services We can assist you to keep the beauty and value of your trees. Contact us today by calling 0480 024 203 to schedule a consultation, and let us assist you to ensure that your trees are protected and healthy.