Expert Assistance in how to identify protected Trees in Christchurch
Trees play a crucial part in the environment as they provide shade, clean air and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However they are not all alike and some have extra protection status, which makes it illegal to do any work without obtaining permission. If you are considering having a tree removed, it’s essential to understand the status of protection for the tree in question and the steps you need to follow to be in compliance with the law. In this article, we’ll help you understand the steps to determine if trees are protected and what you will need take to be sure that you comply with the law.
What exactly is a tree that is protected?
A protected tree is one that has been subjected to certain laws and regulations and it is unlawful to do work on a protected tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. There are two kinds of protection that a tree might have: preservation orders and protection orders.
Statutory protection
Under the law trees are protected by law and are under the control of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are enacted by local authorities to protect trees with a significant public value and ensure they are not damaged or destroyed.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are similar to TPOs but are put in place from the Secretary of State responsible for Environment. Trees with preservation orders are considered to have exceptional worth and are therefore protected from all work, which includes cutting down.
What can I do to determine if a tree is protected?
To determine whether trees are protected, you will need to determine if the tree is under the protection of a TPO or preservation order. It is done by contacting your municipal authority, and asking them to look up their archives.
TPO search
To search for an TPO, you can contact an Tree and Woodland Officer at your local authority. They will inform you whether the tree is protected. They will also be able to guide you on the next steps to take if the tree is protected.
Preservation order search
In order to search for a preservation order, you will need to contact Secretary of State, Department of the Environment. They will inform you whether the tree is in the protected zone and provide you with the necessary information and guidance.
FAQs:
What happens if I carry out work on a protected tree without permission?
If you do work on a protected tree without the appropriate permits, you could be facing massive fines or even prison.
Can I appeal an TPO and/or preservation order?
Yes, you are able to appeal to a TPO or preservation decision if you feel it’s not justifiable. However, you will need to prove your argument and demonstrate that you believe that the TPO or order to preserve is not necessary.
Can I take down a protected tree?
It is against the law to remove a protected tree without obtaining permission from the appropriate authorities. If you need removal of the tree then you must seek permission from the council and provide evidence to support your case.
Conclusion
In the end, determining if a tree is protected is a vital step in ensuring that any tree work legally completed. By understanding the different types of protection, and knowing how to check for them to ensure you’re in compliance with the law and protecting the trees that you are responsible for. If you are unsure about the status of protection for trees, we suggest seeking advice from a reputable tree specialist like Christchurch Tree Pruning. Our experienced arborists can advise you regarding the status of protection of your trees, and will guide you through the required steps to make sure you’re acting within the legal guidelines. With our experience and dedication to providing top-quality tree care We can assist you to preserve the beauty and worth that your trees have. Call us now by phone at 0800 500 764 to schedule a consultation, and let us assist you to keep your trees safe and healthy.