Trees, under the definition of private property, are protected by the law of tort. Anyone trespassing on an owner ’s land who injures a tree may have to pay damages to the owner as compensation. Factories which harm trees through the emission of toxic fumes may be prevented from further emission by a court injunction, and may also be liable for damages. Trees in a tended area (i.e. not growing wild) are protected from vandalism by the Criminal Damage Act 1971. Trees growing wild are also protected by this Act, except in respect to their foliage and fruit.

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