How do you determine if a Tree is Protected before removing it

Posted by The Hills Tree Removal on 7 Mar 2026

Trees play an essential contribution to our ecosystem by providing shade, fresh air and aesthetic value our surroundings. However they are not all alike and some have extra protection status, which makes it illegal to do any work without permission. If you’re considering having a tree removed it is essential to know the status of protection for the tree you’re considering and the steps you have to take to comply with the laws. The following article we will guide you through the steps to determine if a tree is safe and exactly what steps you have take to be sure you comply with the law.

What exactly is a tree that is protected?

A protected tree is subject to specific legal controls, and it’s illegal to do works on a tree without having the appropriate permissions. There are two kinds of protection a tree might have: preservation orders and protection orders.

Statutory protection

Under legal protection trees are protected by laws and under the control of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are issued by local authorities to safeguard trees of significant value to the public and to ensure that they do not get damaged or destroyed.

Preservation orders

Preservation orders are similar to TPOs , but are put in place by the Secretary of State for the Environment. Preservation orders for trees are considered to be of exceptional value and are shielded from any work, including cutting down.

How do I know if a tree is protected?

To determine whether a tree is protected, you must to check if it is in the process of being subject to an TPO or preservation or protection order. This can be accomplished by contacting the authorities in your area and asking them search for records.

If you want to find a TPO to locate one, contact an Tree and Woodland Officer at your local authority. They will be able to tell you if the tree is protected. They’ll also be able advise you on the next steps to do if your tree is protected.

In order to search for a preservation order you will need to contact the Secretary of State for the Environment. They will inform you whether the tree is in the protected zone and will provide the information you require and direction.

FAQs:

What happens if I conduct work on a tree that is protected without permission?

If you carry out work on a protected tree without the proper authorizations, you could be subject to massive fines or even prison.

Can I contest an TPO and/or preservation order?

You can appeal a TPO or preservation decision if you believe it’s not justifiable. You will have be able to present evidence to back your argument and demonstrate your argument as to why it is not necessary to appeal the TPO or preservation order isn’t needed.

Can I take down a protected tree?

It is against the law to remove protected trees without the necessary permissions. If you need removal of the tree then you must seek permission from the council and provide the evidence needed to prove your case.

Conclusion

In conclusion, discovering whether trees are protected is a crucial step to ensure that tree work is legally completed. Understanding the different kinds of protection and the best way to determine if they are protected, you can ensure that you’re in compliance with the law and safeguarding the trees that you are responsible for. If you are unsure about the protection status of trees, we suggest seeking professional advice from an experienced tree expert such as The Hills Tree Removal. Our arborists are experienced and will be able to advise you on the protection status of your trees and walk you through the required steps to ensure that you are following the law. With our expertise and commitment to providing high-quality tree services we will help you keep the beauty and value of your trees. Contact us today at 0480 024 203 to schedule a consultation and let us help you keep your trees protected and healthy.

When you want tree removal services, it is almost always a good idea to have an expert arborist deal with the tree for you for safety reasons when working with dangerous trees.
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