A Complete Guide for Identifying protected Trees in Sydney
Trees play a crucial role in our environment by providing shade, fresh air and aesthetic value our surroundings. However, not all trees are equal and some carry extra protection status, which makes it illegal to carry out any activity without authorization. If you are considering having a tree removed it is essential to know the protection status of the tree you’re considering and what steps you’ll need to take to comply with the laws. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to determine if a tree is secured and the steps you will need to do to ensure that you are following 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 is unlawful to work on a protected tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. There are two kinds of protection that trees could be protected by - statutory protection and preservation orders.
Statutory protection
In the context of legal protection trees are protected under laws and under the control of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are put in place by local authorities to protect trees of significant public value and ensure they are not damaged or destroyed.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are similar to TPOs , but are put in place through the secretary of state for the Environment. Preservation orders for trees are considered to have an exceptional value and are shielded from any work, including felling.
What can I do to determine whether a tree is safe?
To determine if a tree is protected, you need 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 for records.
TPO search
To find an TPO You can reach your local Tree and Woodland officer from your local authority. They will be able to tell you if the tree is protected. They will also be able to guide you about the next steps to 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 tell you whether the tree is in the protected zone and will provide the information you require and direction.
FAQs:
What happens if I carry out work on a tree that is protected without permission?
If you work on a protected tree without the proper permits, you could be facing massive fines or even prison.
Can I contest a TPO or preservation order?
Yes, you are able to 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 argument and demonstrate your argument as to why the TPO or the preservation decision isn’t necessary.
Can I remove a protected tree?
It is illegal to remove trees that are protected without permission from the appropriate authorities. If you want removal of the tree then you must seek permission from the council and provide the evidence needed to prove your case.
Conclusion
To conclude, knowing if trees are protected is a vital step in ensuring that any tree work carried out legally. If you know the various types of protection, and knowing how to identify them it is possible to be sure that you’re following the law and protecting the trees in your care. If you’re not sure about the status of protection for trees, we suggest consulting a reputable tree specialist such as Sydney Tree Lopping Services. Our experienced arborists will be able to advise you on the protection status of your trees and walk you through the necessary steps to ensure you are following the law. With our experience and dedication to providing top-quality tree care, we can help you preserve the beauty and worth of your trees. Contact us today by phone at 1300 291 794 to schedule a consultation and let us assist you to keep your trees safe and healthy.