The Ultimate Guide to Identifying Protected Trees throughout Christchurch
Trees play an essential 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 extra protection status, which makes it illegal to perform any work without permission. If you’re considering having a tree removed, it’s essential to understand the status of protection for the tree in question and what steps you’ll need to take to comply with the laws. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of determining whether the tree is safe and exactly what steps you have take to be sure that you are acting within the law.
What is a protected tree?
A protected tree is subject to specific legal restrictions, and it’s illegal to work on a protected tree without having the appropriate permissions. There are two types of protection a tree may have - preservation and protection orders that are statutory.
Statutory protection
Under statutory protection trees are protected under the law, and they are in the hands of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are enacted by local authorities to safeguard trees with a significant public value and ensure they are not destroyed or damaged.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are similar to TPOs but are put in place from the Secretary of State responsible for Environment. The trees that are protected by preservation orders 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 trees are protected, you must to check if it is in the process of being subject to a TPO or preservation order. It is done by contacting your municipal authority, and asking them to search their records.
TPO search
To find the TPO to locate one, contact an Tree and Woodland officer from your local authority, who will inform you whether the tree is in the protection. They will also be able advise you about the next steps to follow if the tree is protected.
Preservation order search
In order to search for a preservation permit, you will need to contact secretary of state for Environment. They will inform you if the tree is protected and provide you with the required information and guidelines.
FAQs:
What happens if I carry out work on a protected tree without permission?
If you work on a tree that is protected without the proper permits, you could be facing massive fines or even prison.
Can I contest an TPO Or preservation or TPO?
Yes, you can appeal a TPO or preservation or TPO if it’s not justifiable. But, you’ll need to provide evidence to support your case and show why you believe that the TPO or order to preserve is not necessary.
Can I cut down a tree that is protected tree?
It is against the law to remove a protected tree without obtaining the required permissions. If you need removal of the tree, you will need to request permission and submit the evidence needed to prove your case.
Conclusion
To conclude, knowing if the tree is protected is a crucial step to ensure that any tree work is carried out legally. If you know the various types of protection and how to determine if they are protected, you can ensure that you’re in compliance with the law and safeguarding the trees that you are responsible for. If you’re unsure of the protection status of the tree you are in charge of, we suggest consulting a reputable tree specialist like Christchurch Tree Pruning. Our arborists are experienced and can advise you regarding the status of protection of your trees and guide you through the required steps to ensure that you are complying with the laws. With our expertise and commitment to providing top-quality tree care we will help you preserve the beauty and worth of your trees. Call us now by calling 0800 500 764 to schedule a consultation, and let us assist you to keep your trees protected and healthy.