The Significance of Protected Trees and how to identify Them

Trees play a crucial contribution to our ecosystem as they provide shade, clean air and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However they are not all equal and some carry an additional status of protection, making it illegal to perform any work without permission. If you are considering having a tree removed, it’s essential to understand the protection status of the tree in question, and the steps you have to take to comply with the legal requirements. The following article we will help you understand the process of discovering whether trees are safe and exactly what steps you will need to do to ensure you are acting within the law.
What exactly is a tree that is protected?
A protected tree is one that has been subjected to certain laws and regulations It is illegal to do work on such a tree without the required permissions. There are two kinds of protection that trees might have: preservation orders and protection orders.
Protection under the law
In the context of statutory protection trees are protected by law and are subject to Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are enacted by local authorities to protect trees of 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 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 value and are protected from any work, including cutting down.
How can I tell whether a tree is safe?
To determine if the tree is protected, you must to check if it is subject to the protection of a TPO or preservation orders. This can be accomplished by contacting your local authority and asking them to search their archives.
TPO search
To search for the TPO, you can contact your local Tree and Woodland officer from your local authority, who will inform you whether the tree is in the protection. They’ll also be able to guide you on the next steps you should do if your tree is in a protected area.
Preservation order search
If you are looking for a preservation permit, you must contact secretary of state for Environment. They can inform you whether the tree is protected and will provide the information you require and direction.
FAQs:
What happens if I conduct work on a tree that is protected without permission?
If you carry out work on a protected tree without the appropriate permits, you could be facing massive fines or even prison.
Can I appeal a TPO or preservation order?
You can appeal to a TPO or preservation or TPO if you feel it is unjustified. But, you’ll need to prove your claim and explain that it is not necessary to appeal the TPO or preservation order isn’t needed.
Can I cut down a tree that is protected tree?
It is illegal to remove a protected tree without obtaining permission from the appropriate authorities. If you want removal of the tree it is necessary to apply for permission and provide proof to back your claim.
Conclusion
In the end, determining if trees are protected is a vital step in ensuring that any tree work legally completed. Understanding the different kinds of protection, and knowing how to determine if they are protected to ensure you are acting within 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 an experienced tree expert like Christchurch Tree Pruning. Our team of experienced arborists can advise you regarding the status of protection of your trees, and will guide you through the steps to ensure you are complying with the laws. With our experience and dedication to providing high-quality tree services, we can help you preserve the beauty and worth for your tree. Contact us now by calling 0800 500 764 to schedule a appointment, and let us help you keep your trees protected and healthy.