Avoiding the Tree Removal Mistakes that can be made How to Determine whether a Tree is protected
Trees play an essential part in the environment as they provide shade, clean air, and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However, not all trees are equal and some carry extra protection status, which makes it illegal to do any activity without authorization. If you are considering having a tree removed it is essential to know the status of protection for the tree you’re considering and the steps you need to follow to be in compliance with the legal requirements. In this article, we will walk you through the process of discovering whether the tree is protected and what you have be doing to make sure that you are acting within the law.
What is a protected tree?
A protected tree is one that can be subject to specific laws and regulations It is illegal to do work on a protected tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. There are two kinds of protection that trees could be protected by - preservation orders and protection orders.
Protection under the law
Under statutory protection trees are protected by law and are under the control of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are issued by local authorities to protect trees of significant public value and ensure they are not destroyed or damaged.
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 have an exceptional value and are protected from any kind of work, including felling.
What can I do to determine when a tree is in danger?
To determine if a tree is protected, you need to check if it is under the protection of a TPO or preservation orders. This can be done by contacting the local authority and asking them to check their archives.
TPO search
To find the TPO, you can contact your local Tree or Woodland Official of your local authority, who will inform you whether the tree is in the protection. They’ll also be able to advise you about the next steps to follow if the tree is in a protected area.
Preservation order search
In order to search for a preservation order, you will need to contact secretary of state for Environment. They can inform you whether the tree is protected and give you the required information and guidelines.
FAQs:
What is the consequence if I do work on a protected tree without permission?
If you carry out work on a protected tree without the appropriate authorizations, you could be subject to significant fines, and possibly even jail time.
Can I contest a TPO Or preservation or TPO?
Yes, you can appeal an appeal of a TPO or preservation or TPO if you feel it is unjustified. You will have to provide evidence to support your claim and explain your argument as to why the TPO or order to preserve isn’t needed.
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 require removal of the tree then you must apply for permission and provide the evidence needed to prove your case.
Conclusion
To conclude, knowing if the tree is protected is a crucial step in ensuring that any tree work legally completed. If you know the various types of protection and how to identify them, you can ensure that you’re following the law and protecting the trees that you are responsible for. If you are unsure about the protection status of a tree, we recommend seeking advice from an expert in tree care like Christchurch Tree Services. Our team of experienced arborists can advise you on the protection status of your trees and walk you through the necessary steps to ensure you are acting within the laws. With our experience and dedication to providing top-quality tree care, we can help you maintain the beauty and worth for your tree. Contact us now by calling 0800 500 738 to schedule a consultation and let us guide you on how to ensure that your trees are protected and healthy.