The Ultimate Guide to Identifying protected Trees throughout Western Sydney
Trees play an important part in the environment by providing shade, fresh air and aesthetic value our surroundings. However there are a few trees that aren’t identical and some are granted additional protection status, making it illegal to do any activity without authorization. If you’re considering having a tree removed it is essential to know the protection status of the tree you’re considering and the steps you have to take to ensure compliance with the laws. This article we’ll walk you through the process of discovering whether the tree is safe and exactly what steps you have to do to ensure you are acting within the law.
What is a protected tree?
A protected tree is subject to specific legal restrictions and it is unlawful to work on a protected tree without having the appropriate permissions. There are two types of protection that a tree could be protected by - statutory protection and preservation orders.
Legal protection
As a matter of legal protection, trees are protected by law and are in the hands of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are issued by local authorities in order to protect trees of significant public value and to ensure that they are not destroyed or damaged.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are similar to TPOs , but are put in place through the secretary of state for the Environment. The trees that are protected by preservation orders are considered to have exceptional worth and are therefore protected from all work, which includes the felling.
How do I know when a tree is in danger?
To determine if the tree is protected, you need to verify if it’s under a TPO or preservation or protection order. This can be done by contacting your municipal authority, and asking them to look up for records.
TPO search
To find an TPO, you can contact your local Tree or Woodland Official of the local authority. They will inform you whether the tree is in the protection. They will also be able to guide you on the next steps to follow if the tree is in a protected area.
Preservation order search
If you are looking for a preservation permit, you will need to contact secretary of state for Environment. They will be able to determine if the tree is protected and provide you with the necessary information and guidance.
FAQs:
What is the consequence if I do work on a tree that is protected without permission?
If you do work on a tree that is protected without the appropriate permissions, you could face massive fines or even prison.
Can I contest a TPO or preservation order?
You can appeal an appeal of a TPO or preservation or TPO if you feel that it is not justified. However, you will need to provide evidence to support your case and show your argument as to why it is not necessary to appeal the TPO or preservation order isn’t needed.
Can I take down a protected tree?
It is against the law to remove protected trees without the necessary permissions. If you want removal of the tree, you will need to seek permission from the council and provide evidence to support your case.
Conclusion
In conclusion, discovering whether the tree is protected is a crucial step to ensure that any tree work is legally completed. If you know the various types of protection and how to determine if they are protected it is possible to be sure that you’re following the law and protecting the trees you care for. If you’re unsure of the nature of the protection of trees, we suggest seeking advice from an expert in tree care such as Western Sydney Tree Removal. Our experienced arborists can advise you regarding the status of protection of your trees, and will guide you through the required steps to ensure that you are following the law. With our expertise and commitment to providing top-quality tree care, we can help you preserve the beauty and worth of your trees. Contact us now at 1300 330 872 to schedule a appointment, and let us assist you to keep your trees safe and healthy.