Felling permission for windblown trees

You may not need a felling permission if an exemption applies. Refer to:

• The Forestry (Exemptions) (Scotland) Regulations 2019

• Appendix 1 of our felling permission application guidance

If you claim an exemption, you must be able to prove that it applies. We advise you to:

• take clear photographs of the situation

• record decisions in your risk assessment and method statement for the job and retain for three years

If you cannot clearly demonstrate an exemption, you must apply for a felling permission.

What to include in your application

To help us assess your application as quickly as possible, you should include:

• photographs of the site

• a clear map showing the extent of the windblown area to be felled

Mark any additional areas on your map and accompanying photographs. For example, areas that are now windblown but require felling to:

• provide access

• ensure safe felling of windblown trees

• establish a wind firm boundary