This is the Ultimate Reference Guide Identifying protected Trees throughout Western Sydney
Trees play an important role in our environment, providing shade, clean air and aesthetic value our surroundings. However they are not all identical and some are granted an additional status of protection, making it illegal to carry out any work without obtaining permission. If you’re considering having a tree removed it is crucial to be aware of the protection status of the tree you’re considering and the steps you need to follow to be in compliance with the law. This article we’ll guide you through the steps to determine if the tree is safe and exactly what steps you have to do to ensure that you comply with the law.
What exactly is a tree that is protected?
A protected tree is one that can be subject to specific legal restrictions, and it’s illegal to work on such a tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. There are two types of protection that trees may have - preservation orders and protection orders.
Statutory protection
Under legal protection trees are protected under laws and under the control of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are issued by local authorities in order to protect trees with a significant public value and to ensure that they are not damaged or destroyed.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are like TPOs in that they are set up from the Secretary of State responsible for Environment. The trees that are protected by preservation orders are considered to have exceptional worth and are therefore protected from all work, which includes cutting down.
How do I know when a tree is in danger?
To determine if the tree is protected, you must to determine if the tree is under a TPO or preservation or protection order. This can be accomplished by contacting the authorities in your area and asking them search their archives.
TPO search
To search for the TPO, you can contact the Tree or Woodland Official of your local authority, who can inform you whether the tree is protected. They’ll also be able to advise you about the next steps to do if your tree is in a protected area.
Preservation order search
In order to search for a preservation order you’ll need to call secretary of state for Environment. They will be able to tell you if the tree is protected and provide you with the information you require and direction.
FAQs:
What happens if I conduct work on a protected tree without permission?
If you carry out work on a protected tree without obtaining the necessary permits, you could be facing substantial fines and even imprisonment.
Can I appeal an TPO and/or preservation order?
Yes, you can appeal a TPO or preservation or TPO if you feel it’s not justifiable. But, you’ll need be able to present evidence to back your case and show that you believe that the TPO or the preservation decision isn’t necessary.
Can I remove a protected tree?
It is against the law to remove a protected tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. If you need removal of the tree it is necessary to apply for permission and provide the evidence needed to prove your case.
Conclusion
In conclusion, discovering whether a tree is protected is a vital step to ensure that any tree work is carried out legally. If you know the various types of protection, and knowing how to determine if they are protected to ensure you’re following the law and protecting the trees in your care. If you are unsure about the nature of the protection of a tree, we recommend seeking professional advice from an expert in tree care, such as Western Sydney Tree Removal. Our experienced arborists will be able to advise you about the protection status of your trees, and will guide you through the steps to ensure you are following the legal guidelines. With our experience and dedication to providing top-quality tree care we will help you keep the beauty and worth of your trees. Contact us today at 1300 636 143 to schedule a consultation and let us guide you on how to ensure that your trees are protected and healthy.