The Ultimate Guide to Identifying protected Trees within Sydney
Trees play a crucial role in our environment, providing shade, clean air and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However, not all trees are alike and some have extra protection status, which makes it illegal to perform any activity without authorization. If you’re thinking of having a tree removed it is crucial to be aware of the status of protection for the tree you’re considering, and the steps you need to take to ensure compliance with the legal requirements. The following article we’ll walk you through the steps to determine if a tree is safe and exactly what steps you have be doing to make sure that you are following the law.
What is a protected tree?
A protected tree has been subjected to certain laws and regulations and it is unlawful to carry out works on a tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. There are two types of protection that trees may have - statutory protection and preservation orders.
Protection under the law
In the context of the law, trees are protected by laws and under the control of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are issued by local authorities to protect trees with a significant public value and to ensure that they do not get destroyed or damaged.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are like TPOs in that they are set up from the Secretary of State responsible for Environment. Preservation orders for trees are considered to be of exceptional worth and are therefore protected from all work, which includes cutting down.
What can I do to determine if a tree is protected?
To determine if the tree is protected, you need to verify if it’s under the protection of a TPO or preservation orders. This can be accomplished by contacting your authorities in your area and asking them search their archives.
TPO search
If you want to find the TPO, you can contact an Tree and Woodland Officer of the local authority. They can inform you whether the tree is protected. They will also be able to advise you about the next steps to do if your tree is protected.
Preservation order search
In order to search for a preservation permit, you must contact secretary of state for Environment. They will be able to inform you whether the tree is protected and provide you with the necessary information and guidance.
FAQs:
What happens if I conduct work on a tree that is protected without permission?
If you work on a protected tree without obtaining the necessary permissions, you could face significant fines, and possibly even jail time.
Can I contest an TPO and/or preservation order?
Yes, you are able to appeal to a TPO or preservation or TPO if you feel that it is not justified. You will have to prove your case and show why you believe that the TPO or the preservation decision isn’t necessary.
Can I take down a protected tree?
It is illegal to remove trees that are protected without the necessary permissions. If you require the tree to be removed, you will need to seek permission from the council and provide proof to back your claim.
Conclusion
To conclude, knowing if the tree is protected is a crucial step to ensure that any tree work carried out legally. Understanding the different kinds of protection, and knowing how to identify them, you can ensure that you’re in compliance with the law and safeguarding the trees in your care. If you are unsure about the nature of the protection of trees, we suggest consulting an experienced tree expert, such as Sydney Wide Tree Removal. Our team of experienced arborists will be able to inform you about the protection status of your trees and walk you through the required steps to make sure you’re complying with the legal guidelines. With our knowledge and dedication to provide high-quality tree services we will help you keep the beauty and value for your tree. Contact us now at 1300 152 268 to schedule a consultation, and let us help you ensure that your trees are protected and healthy.