Ash Dieback Felling: Forestry Commission License Process

Ash dieback disease has become one of the most significant tree health challenges facing the UK, with millions of ash trees affected across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. This devastating fungal disease, caused by Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, has prompted widespread concern amongst landowners, local authorities and homeowners who may need to fell infected trees. Understanding the Forestry Commission’s licensing requirements is crucial for anyone planning to remove ash trees, whether diseased or healthy, to ensure compliance with UK forestry regulations whilst managing this environmental crisis responsibly.

Understanding Ash Dieback and Its Impact

Ash dieback, also known as Chalara dieback of ash, was first confirmed in the UK in 2012 and has since spread rapidly throughout the British Isles. The disease affects trees of all ages, though young trees typically succumb more quickly than mature specimens.

Key symptoms of ash dieback include:

• Wilting and blackening of leaves
• Diamond-shaped lesions on the bark
• Crown dieback starting from the top of the tree
• Epicormic growth (shoots growing from the trunk)
• Dark brown wood staining beneath the bark

The disease poses significant safety risks, particularly in urban areas and along roadsides, as infected trees become structurally unstable. In areas such as Kent, Suffolk and Norfolk, where the disease was first identified, local authorities have already undertaken extensive felling programmes. The economic impact is substantial, with removal costs ranging from £500 to £3,000 per tree, depending on size and location.

When You Need a Felling License

Under the Forestry Act 1967, anyone wishing to fell trees in England must obtain a felling license from the Forestry Commission, with similar requirements in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland through their respective forestry bodies. However, there are specific exemptions and special considerations for ash dieback cases.

Standard Licensing Requirements

A felling license is typically required when:

• Felling more than 5 cubic metres of timber per calendar quarter
• Selling more than 2 cubic metres of timber per calendar quarter
• The trees are not covered by specific exemptions

Exemptions That May Apply

You don’t need a license for:

• Trees in gardens
• Trees with a diameter less than 8cm (measured 1.3m from ground level)
• Trees covered by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) – though you’ll need local authority permission
• Dead trees (though evidence may be required)
• Dangerous trees that pose immediate risk to persons or property

It’s worth noting that whilst dead or dangerous ash trees may be exempt, proper documentation and evidence of the tree’s condition is essential to avoid potential prosecution.

The Forestry Commission Application Process

The Forestry Commission has streamlined its licensing process to address the ash dieback crisis, recognising the urgent need for action across affected regions.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1. Initial Assessment
Before applying, conduct a thorough assessment of your ash trees. Consider hiring a qualified arboricultural consultant, particularly for large-scale operations. Costs for professional surveys typically range from £300-£1,500 depending on the site size.

2. Online Application
Applications are submitted through the Forestry Commission’s online portal. You’ll need:

• Ordnance Survey grid references for the felling location
• Maps clearly marking affected trees
• Details of tree species, numbers and estimated volumes
• Evidence of ash dieback infection (photographs, professional reports)
• Proposed felling timetable
• Replanting proposals if applicable

3. Supporting Documentation
For ash dieback cases, include:

• Photographic evidence of symptoms
• Arboricultural reports
• Health and safety risk assessments
• Environmental impact considerations

4. Processing Timeline
The Forestry Commission aims to process standard applications within 3 months. However, ash dieback cases may receive expedited treatment, particularly where public safety is concerned. Emergency felling notices can be issued within 5 working days for dangerous trees.

Special Provisions for Ash Dieback

Recognising the scale of the ash dieback problem, the Forestry Commission has introduced specific measures to facilitate necessary felling whilst maintaining environmental protection.

Statutory Plant Health Notices (SPHNs)

In severe cases, the Forestry Commission may issue SPHNs requiring landowners to fell infected ash trees. These notices:

• Override normal licensing requirements
• May include deadlines for completion
• Can apply to individual trees or entire woodlands
• Are legally binding with penalties for non-compliance

Conditional Licenses

The Commission often issues conditional licenses for ash dieback felling, which may include:

• Requirements for replanting with alternative species
• Retention of a percentage of ash trees for genetic resistance research
• Timing restrictions to protect nesting birds (typically March to August)
• Biosecurity measures to prevent disease spread

Cost Implications and Financial Support

The financial burden of ash dieback management can be substantial, particularly for private landowners and local authorities managing extensive woodland areas.

Typical Felling Costs

• Small garden ash tree: £400-£800
• Medium roadside tree: £800-£1,500
• Large woodland tree: £1,500-£3,000
• Stump removal: Additional £150-£500 per stump

Available Grants and Support

The Countryside Stewardship scheme offers grants for ash dieback management, including:

• Tree Health Pilot Scheme (in selected areas)
• Woodland Improvement grants (up to £1,200 per hectare)
• Infrastructure grants for improving access for felling operations

Local authorities in heavily affected areas such as East Anglia and the South East may offer additional support schemes. Contact your local Forestry Commission office for region-specific programmes.

Environmental and Replanting Requirements

Whilst addressing the immediate threat of ash dieback is crucial, maintaining woodland cover and biodiversity remains a priority. The Forestry Commission typically requires replanting as a condition of felling licenses.

Replanting Guidelines

Standard requirements include:

• Replanting within 2 years of felling
• Using appropriate native species (avoiding monocultures)
• Maintaining equivalent woodland area
• Following UK Forestry Standard guidelines

Recommended Alternative Species

Suitable replacements for ash include:

• Oak (Quercus robur or Q. petraea)
• Small-leaved lime (Tilia cordata)
• Field maple (Acer campestre)
• Wild cherry (Prunus avium)
• Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus)

Working with Professional Tree Surgeons

Given the complexity of ash dieback felling and licensing requirements, engaging qualified professionals is strongly recommended. When selecting contractors, ensure they possess:

• Appropriate qualifications (NPTC or Lantra certification)
• Comprehensive insurance (minimum £5 million public liability)
• Experience with diseased tree removal
• Understanding of Forestry Commission requirements
• Proper waste carrier licenses for timber disposal

Professional tree surgeons can manage the entire process, from initial assessment through license application to safe felling and site clearance. Whilst this adds to overall costs, their expertise ensures compliance and reduces liability risks.

Regional Variations and Local Authority Requirements

Whilst the Forestry Commission oversees England’s forests, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own forestry bodies with slightly different procedures.

Scotland

Scottish Forestry manages felling permissions, with similar exemptions but different volume thresholds. Applications are processed through the Scottish Forestry portal.

Wales

Natural Resources Wales handles felling licenses, with bilingual application options and specific provisions for Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs).

Northern Ireland

The Forest Service Northern Ireland manages permissions, with particular focus on cross-border biosecurity given the disease’s presence in the Republic of Ireland.

Additionally, local planning authorities may have specific requirements, particularly in:

• Conservation areas
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs)
• National Parks
• Sites with Tree Preservation Orders

Conclusion

Managing ash dieback through appropriate felling is essential for public safety and forest health across the UK. Whilst the Forestry Commission license process may seem daunting, it ensures that tree removal is conducted responsibly and with consideration for long-term woodland sustainability. Whether you’re a private landowner with a single infected ash or managing extensive woodland, understanding the licensing process is crucial for legal compliance and effective disease management.

The key to successful navigation of the system lies in early planning, thorough documentation, and where appropriate, professional assistance. With ash dieback expected to affect up to 95% of the UK’s ash trees over the coming decades, proactive management through proper licensing channels will remain critical for years to come. By following the Forestry Commission’s procedures and taking advantage of available support, landowners can contribute to managing this crisis whilst maintaining Britain’s woodland legacy for future generations.