How do we decide when a tree preservation order is needed?
We may find out that a tree preservation order is needed in a number of ways. • We may identify trees which are important to the appearance of the general area and which may be cut down if a proposed new building is built. • Another part of the Department of the Environment (NI) may tell us that we need to protect an area where they think the trees are of special importance or where the area is of special scientific interest or an area of outstanding natural beauty. • We may hear from different people that certain trees may be under threat and need protecting immediately. We then assess any possible threat and the importance of the trees before we decide whether a tree preservation order is needed. What are the procedures? First we make a tree preservation order which takes effect immediately. This means we can protect trees which may be under threat. We then tell the owners and occupiers of the land, and any other people who may have an interest, that we have.made a tree preservation
