The Ultimate Guide to Identifying Protected Trees in Sydney
Trees play a crucial role in our environment, providing shade, clean air and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However there are a few trees that aren’t alike and some have extra protection status, which makes it illegal to perform any work without permission. If you’re 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 ensure compliance with the law. This article we will guide you through the process of determining whether trees are secured and the steps you will need to do to ensure that you are acting within the law.
What exactly is a tree that is protected?
A protected tree can be subject to specific legal restrictions and it is unlawful to do 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.
Statutory protection
In the context of statutory protection trees are protected under laws and in the hands of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are issued by local authorities to safeguard 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 by the Secretary of State for the Environment. Trees with preservation orders are considered to have an exceptional value and are protected from any work, including felling.
What can I do to determine whether a tree is safe?
To determine if trees are protected, you must to determine if the tree is subject to an TPO or preservation or protection order. This can be accomplished by contacting your municipal authority, and asking them to check their records.
TPO search
If you want to find an TPO to locate one, contact the Tree and Woodland officer of your local authority, who will inform you if the tree is protected. They’ll also be able to guide you on the next steps to take if the tree is protected.
Preservation order search
In order to search for a preservation order, you must contact the Secretary of State for the Environment. They will be able to tell you whether the tree is protected and provide you with the information you require and direction.
FAQs:
What is the consequence if I do work on a tree that is protected without permission?
If you work on a tree that is protected without obtaining the necessary permissions, you could face substantial fines and even imprisonment.
Can I appeal an TPO or preservation order?
Yes, you are able to appeal an appeal of a TPO or preservation or TPO if you feel it’s not justifiable. However, you will need to prove your claim and explain why it is not necessary to appeal the TPO or preservation order is not necessary.
Can I cut down a tree that is protected tree?
It is against the law to remove protected trees without permission from the appropriate authorities. If you want the tree to be removed then you must apply for permission and provide evidence to support your case.
Conclusion
In the end, determining if trees are protected is a vital 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 are acting within the law and protecting the trees in your care. If you are unsure about the status of protection for a tree, we recommend seeking advice from an experienced tree expert, such as Sydney Tree Cutting. Our team of experienced arborists can advise you on the protection status of your trees, and will guide you through the steps to make sure you’re acting within the legal guidelines. With our expertise and commitment to providing top-quality tree care, we can help you maintain the beauty and worth of your trees. Contact us now at 1300 161 370 to schedule a appointment, and let us guide you on how to ensure that your trees are protected and healthy.