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Felling for land use change

The permanent removal of trees for the purposes of conversion to another type of land use is referred to as woodland removal.

Published: 23 Feb 2025

Topic: Felling trees

It does not include the removal of trees associated with the internal re-design of woodlands to meet the UK Forestry Standard.

The UK Forestry Standard, 5th edition

In Scotland, climate change and human activities such as housing or wind farm developments has led to extensive woodland removal.

To support and add to Scotland’s forests and woodland resources, we need to stop inappropriate woodland loss.

Policy on the control of woodland removal

The Scottish Government's policy on control of woodland removal gives direction for decisions on woodland removal in Scotland.

We've also published further guidance on how to apply the policy on control of woodland removal. The guidance applies to both consenting authorities and applicants.

Policy on Control of Woodland Removal Scottish Government’s policy on control of woodland removal: implementation guidance

Forestry Environmental Impact Assessment

An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a systematic process which checks the potential environmental consequences of a proposed development or project.

If you are planning permanent forest removal, please consider that an EIA process may also be required and you should contact your local Conservancy office. 

Contact your local Scottish Forestry office

More guidance for planning authorities

We've also published guidance on planning for forestry and woodlands. This advises planning authorities on how to prepare new forestry and woodland strategies to guide future woodland expansion.

This also gives advice on how forestry and woodland considerations can be brought into development planning and management.

The right tree in the right place: Planning for forestry and woodlands

Woodland removal for peatland restoration

We've published guidance on woodland removal for peatland restoration. This advises what's needed when considering peatland restoration projects that involve tree felling. 

Woodland Removal for Peatland Restoration

Published: 23 Feb 2025

Last updated: 24 Sep 2025

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