Tree felling permissions
Request tree felling permissions granted and replacement planting requirements.
Felling trees in Scotland usually requires a licence from Scottish Forestry. Councils also manage trees under tree preservation orders and planning conditions. Knowing what felling has been permitted, and what replacement planting is required, helps communities track changes to their local environment.
Dear [AUTHORITY NAME],
Please provide the following information for [AREA OR SITE] in [YEAR e.g. 2024].
1. Any tree felling permissions or felling licences granted.
2. The number and species of trees approved for felling in each permission.
3. Any replacement planting conditions attached to each permission and whether those conditions have been met.
I would prefer to receive this by email.
Yours faithfully,
[YOUR NAME]
Who to send it to#
Your local council for trees covered by tree preservation orders or planning conditions, or Scottish Forestry for felling licences. Use the Scottish Information Commissioner’s directory to find the right contact. You can also send your request through WhatDoTheyKnow, which publishes responses online.
Tips#
- This is environmental information under the EIR. You do not need to give a reason for your request.
- If trees have been felled without permission, you can report this to Scottish Forestry.
- Tree preservation orders are made by councils and can be searched on planning portals. Check there first to see what protections are already in place.