The Ultimate Guide to Identifying Trees that are Protected Trees within Wollongong
Trees play an essential part in the environment, providing shade, clean air and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However they are not all equal and some carry additional protection status, making it illegal to carry out any activity without authorization. If you’re considering having a tree removed it is essential to know the status of protection for the tree in question, and the steps you need to take to comply with the laws. The following article we’ll help you understand the process of discovering whether a tree is safe and exactly what steps you need to do to ensure you are following the law.
What is a protected tree?
A protected tree is one that has been subjected to certain legal restrictions, and it’s illegal to work on such a tree without having the appropriate permissions. There are two kinds of protection that trees may have - statutory protection and preservation orders.
Statutory protection
As a matter of legal protection trees are protected by law and are in the hands of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are put in place by local authorities in order to protect trees with a significant public value and to ensure that they are not destroyed or damaged.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are like TPOs in that they are put in place from the Secretary of State responsible for Environment. Trees with preservation orders are considered to be of exceptional value and are shielded from any kind of work, including cutting down.
How do I know when a tree is in danger?
To determine whether trees are protected, you must to determine if the tree is in the process of being subject to an TPO or preservation orders. It is done by contacting your authorities in your area and asking them search their records.
TPO search
To find the TPO to locate one, contact an Tree and Woodland officer from your local authority. They will be able to tell you whether the tree is in the protection. They’ll also be able to guide you on the next steps you should do if your tree is protected.
Preservation order search
If you are looking for a preservation order you’ll need to call secretary of state for Environment. They can determine whether the tree is in the protected zone and will provide the necessary information and guidance.
FAQs:
What is the consequence if I do work on a protected tree 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 a TPO Or preservation or TPO?
Yes, you can appeal to a TPO or preservation decision if you feel it’s not justifiable. But, you’ll need to provide evidence to support your claim and explain that you believe that the TPO or the preservation decision is not necessary.
Can I cut down a tree that is protected tree?
It is illegal to remove a protected tree without obtaining permission from the appropriate authorities. If you require the tree to be removed it is necessary to seek permission from the council and provide the evidence needed to prove your case.
Conclusion
To conclude, knowing if a tree is protected is a crucial step to ensure that any tree work legally completed. If you know the various types of protection and how to determine if they are protected, you can ensure that you are acting within the law and are protecting the trees you care for. If you are unsure about the protection status of trees, we suggest seeking advice from an expert in tree care, such as Tree Services Wollongong. Our experienced arborists will be able to inform you on the protection status of your trees, and will guide you through the steps to make sure you’re complying with the laws. With our expertise and commitment to providing top-quality tree care We can assist you to preserve the beauty and worth for your tree. Contact us today at 1300 400 381 to schedule a consultation, and let us help you ensure that your trees are protected and healthy.