The Consequences of Destroying a Protected Tree and How to Avoid These

Posted by Christchurch Tree Trimming on 14 Nov 2025

Trees play an important role in our environment, providing shade, clean air, and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However there are a few trees that aren’t equal and some carry an additional status of protection, making it illegal to perform any activity without authorization. If you are considering having a tree removed it is essential to know the protection status of the tree being considered and what steps you’ll need to take to ensure compliance with the legal requirements. This article we will help you understand the steps to determine if trees are secured and the steps you have to do to ensure you are following the law.

What exactly is a tree that is protected?

A protected tree is one that is subject to specific laws and regulations, and it’s illegal to work on a protected tree without the required permissions. There are two types of protection that a tree may have - statutory protection and preservation orders.

Statutory protection

As a matter of the law trees are protected by the law, and they are in the hands of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are enacted by local authorities to protect trees of significant public value and ensure they are not damaged or destroyed.

Preservation orders

Preservation orders are like TPOs in that they are put in place from the Secretary of State responsible for Environment. The trees that are protected by preservation orders are considered to have an exceptional worth and are therefore protected from any work, including felling.

How can I tell when a tree is in danger?

To determine if a tree is protected, you will need to verify if it’s in the process of being subject to a TPO or preservation orders. It is done by contacting your municipal authority, and asking them to look up for records.

To find the TPO, you can contact the Tree and Woodland officer of the local authority. They will be able to tell you if the tree is protected. They will also be able to guide you about the next steps to follow if the tree is in a protected area.

To search for a preservation order, you will need to contact the Secretary of State for the Environment. They will determine 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 do work on a protected tree without obtaining the necessary permits, you could be facing substantial fines and even imprisonment.

Can I appeal to a TPO Or preservation or TPO?

You can appeal a TPO or preservation or TPO if you feel that it is not justified. You will have be able to present evidence to back your argument and demonstrate that you believe that the TPO or the preservation decision is not necessary.

Can I take down a protected tree?

It is illegal to remove trees that are protected without permission from the appropriate authorities. If you want the tree to be removed, you will need to apply for permission and provide proof to back your claim.

Conclusion

In the end, determining if trees are protected is an essential aspect in ensuring that any tree work carried out legally. Understanding the different kinds of protection and the best way to determine if they are protected it is possible to be sure that you’re following the law and safeguarding the trees you care for. If you’re not sure about the nature of the protection of the tree you are in charge of, we suggest consulting an expert in tree care such as Christchurch Tree Trimming. Our arborists are experienced and will be able to advise you about the protection status of your trees and guide you through the necessary steps to ensure that you are complying with the legal guidelines. With our knowledge and dedication to provide high-quality tree services We can assist you to keep the beauty and worth of your trees. Contact us now at 0800 500 743 to schedule a consultation, and let us help you keep your trees safe and healthy.

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When most people think of tree removal, they think that anybody can take care of the job, provided that enough power can be obtained. The fact of the issue, however, is the tree removal is a job that requires more ability than raw power. It’s a highly technical process, particularly due to the security element involved. The good thing is that using a team like ours, safety is guaranteed.

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The tree trimming industry is notorious for injuries such as impact accidents, falls, electrocution, cuts, scratches, and many others. But with Christchurch Tree Trimming, we ensure security for you, your family, pets, and property. Security is our #No.1 priority.

Our professional team of tree surgeons will put your mind at ease and talk you through any safety issues you could be having. We are going to get in touch with you about how we intend handling your tree trimming Christchurch task. You will certainly be 100% happy with our process once we finish explaining our process. We will be clean, swift, courteous, and thorough.

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