The Ultimate Guide to Identifying protected Trees throughout Sydney
Trees play a crucial contribution to our ecosystem, providing shade, clean air, and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However, not all trees are identical and some are granted additional protection status, making it illegal to carry out any work without obtaining permission. If you’re thinking of having a tree removed it is essential to know the status of protection for the tree you’re considering and what steps you’ll need to take to comply with the laws. The following article we’ll help you understand the steps to determine if the tree is protected and what you have take to be sure you are following the law.
What exactly is a tree that is protected?
A protected tree can be subject to specific legal controls and it is unlawful to do works on a tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. There are two kinds of protection that trees may have - preservation and protection orders that are statutory.
Protection under the law
As a matter of statutory protection, trees are protected by the law, and they are subject to Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are enacted by local authorities in order to protect trees with a significant public value and to ensure that they do not get damaged or destroyed.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are similar to TPOs , but are issued from the Secretary of State responsible for Environment. The trees that are protected by preservation orders are considered to be of exceptional worth and are therefore protected from all work, which includes the felling.
What can I do to determine when a tree is in danger?
To determine if the tree is protected, you will need to check if it is under an TPO or preservation order. This can be accomplished by contacting your local authority and asking them to check for records.
TPO search
To search for an TPO, you can contact an Tree or Woodland Official at the local authority. They will inform you if the tree is protected. They’ll 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 order, you’ll need to call the Secretary of State for the Environment. They can inform you whether the tree is in the protected zone and will provide the information you require and direction.
FAQs:
What happens if I conduct work on a tree that is protected without permission?
If you do work on a protected tree without obtaining the necessary authorizations, you could be subject to massive fines or even prison.
Can I contest to a TPO and/or preservation order?
You can appeal a TPO or preservation order if you feel that it is not justified. But, you’ll need be able to present evidence to back your argument and demonstrate your argument as to why it is not necessary to appeal the TPO or the preservation decision isn’t necessary.
Can I cut down a tree that is protected tree?
It is unlawful to take down protected trees without the required permissions. If you want the tree to be removed then you must request permission and submit evidence to support your case.
Conclusion
To conclude, knowing if a tree is protected is a crucial aspect in ensuring that any tree work carried out legally. If you know the various types of protection and how to check for them, you can ensure that you’re following the law and are protecting the trees that you are responsible for. If you are unsure about the status of protection for a tree, we recommend consulting a reputable tree specialist, such as Sydney Tree Lopping Services. Our experienced arborists will be able to advise you regarding the status of protection of your trees, and will guide you through the required steps to ensure you are complying with the laws. With our expertise and commitment to providing high-quality tree services we will help you maintain the beauty and worth for your tree. Contact us now by phone at 1300 291 794 to schedule a appointment, and let us guide you on how to keep your trees safe and healthy.