A Complete Guide for Identifying Protected Trees within Brisbane
Trees play an important contribution to our ecosystem as they provide shade, clean air, and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However they are not all identical and some are granted extra protection status, which makes it illegal to carry out any work without obtaining permission. If you’re considering having a tree removed, it’s essential to understand the protection status of the tree in question and what steps you’ll need to take to ensure compliance with the laws. In this article, we’ll help you understand the process of discovering whether trees are safe and exactly what steps you will need to do to ensure that you are following the law.
What is a protected tree?
A protected tree is one that is subject to specific laws and regulations and it is unlawful to do work on such a 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
Under statutory protection trees are protected by the law, and they are under the control of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are put in place by local authorities to safeguard 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 issued through the secretary of state for the Environment. Preservation orders for trees are considered to have exceptional value and are shielded from any work, including felling.
What can I do to determine whether a tree is safe?
To determine whether trees are protected, you need to verify if it’s under an TPO or preservation orders. This can be done by contacting your local authority and asking them to check their archives.
TPO search
To search for an TPO You can reach the Tree and Woodland Officer from your local authority, who can inform you whether the tree is in the protection. They’ll also be able to guide you on the next steps you should take if the tree is in a protected area.
Preservation order search
In order to search for a preservation order you will need to contact the Secretary of State for the Environment. They will inform you if the tree is protected and give you 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 permissions, you could face massive fines or even prison.
Can I appeal an TPO Or preservation or TPO?
Yes, you can appeal a TPO or preservation or TPO if that it is not justified. However, you will need to provide evidence to support your case and show why it is not necessary to appeal the TPO or order to preserve isn’t needed.
Can I take down a protected tree?
It is unlawful to take down trees that are protected without the required permissions. If you need the tree to be removed, you will need to request permission and submit the evidence needed to prove your case.
Conclusion
In conclusion, discovering whether a tree is protected is a crucial step to ensure that any tree work legally completed. Understanding the different kinds of protection, and knowing 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 protection status of a tree, we recommend seeking advice from an expert in tree care such as Brisbane Tree Removal Service. Our arborists are experienced and will be able to inform you on the protection status of your trees and guide you through the steps to ensure you are complying with the legal guidelines. With our expertise and commitment to providing top-quality tree care, we can help you preserve the beauty and worth of your trees. Contact us today at 0480 099 748 to schedule a consultation, and let us guide you on how to keep your trees safe and healthy.
