Felling licences

The felling of trees is controlled by the Forestry Commission and a licence is required from them to fell growing trees. However, in any calender quarter up to 5 cubic metres may be felled provided not more than 2 cubic metres are sold.

There are certain other exceptions and a licence is not required if any of the following conditions apply:

• The felling is in accordance with an approved plan of operations under one of the Forestry Commission's grant schemes
• The trees are in a garden, orchard, churchyard or public open space
• The trees are all below 8 centimetres in diameter, measured 1.3 metres from the ground; or in the case of thinnings, below 10 centimetres in diameter; or in the case of coppice or underwood, below 15 centimetres in diameter
• The trees are interfering with permitted development or statutory works by public bodies
• The trees are dead, dangerous, causing a nuisance or are badly affected by Dutch Elm disease.The felling is in compliance with an Act of Parliament.

For felling licence application forms and advice contact the Forestry Commission, Wheldrake Lane, Crockey Hill, York, YO19 4FF. Telephone (01904) 448778