The Ultimate Guide to Identifying protected Trees throughout Brisbane

Trees play a crucial part in the environment as they provide shade, clean air, and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However, not all trees are equal and some carry extra protection status, which makes it illegal to perform any work without permission. If you’re considering having a tree removed it is crucial to be aware of the protection status of the tree being considered and the steps you need to take to ensure compliance with the law. This article we’ll help you understand the steps to determine if trees are protected and what you have to do to ensure that you comply with the law.
What is a protected tree?
A protected tree has been subjected to certain legal restrictions and it is unlawful to works on a tree without the required permissions. There are two kinds of protection that a tree could be protected by - statutory protection and preservation orders.
Legal protection
As a matter of the law trees are protected under laws and subject to Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are enacted by local authorities to protect trees of significant value to the public and to ensure that they are not damaged or destroyed.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are similar to TPOs but are issued from the Secretary of State responsible for Environment. Trees with preservation orders are considered to be of exceptional worth and are therefore protected from any kind of work, including the felling.
What can I do to determine if a tree is protected?
To determine whether a 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 municipal authority, and asking them to check their archives.
TPO search
To search for the TPO to locate one, contact your local Tree and Woodland Officer from the local authority. They will inform you whether the tree is protected. They will also be able to advise you on the next steps you should 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 tell you if the tree is protected and will provide the required information and guidelines.
FAQs:
What happens if I carry out work on a protected tree without permission?
If you carry out work on a protected tree without obtaining the necessary authorizations, you could be subject to significant fines, and possibly even jail time.
Can I appeal a TPO and/or preservation order?
Yes, you are able to appeal to a TPO or preservation decision if it’s not justifiable. You will have to prove your case and show your argument as to why the TPO or the preservation decision is not necessary.
Can I cut down a tree that is protected tree?
It is against the law to remove a protected tree without obtaining the required permissions. If you require removal of the tree it is necessary to request permission and submit the evidence needed to prove your case.
Conclusion
To conclude, knowing if trees are protected is a crucial step in ensuring that tree work is carried out legally. Understanding the different kinds of protection and the best way to determine if they are protected, you can ensure that you are acting within the law and are protecting the trees that you are responsible for. If you’re unsure of the nature of the protection of a tree, we recommend seeking advice from a reputable tree specialist such as Expert Tree Services Brisbane. Our experienced arborists can advise you about the protection status of your trees, and will guide you through the necessary steps to ensure you are complying with the legal guidelines. With our experience and dedication to provide high-quality tree services We can assist you to maintain the beauty and worth that your trees have. Call us now by phone at 0485 882825 to schedule a consultation, and let us help you keep your trees protected and healthy.