Ash Dieback Identification: Felling Licence Applications

Ash dieback disease has become one of the most significant threats to Britain’s woodland landscape, affecting millions of ash trees across the country. As property owners and land managers grapple with this devastating disease, understanding the legal requirements for tree removal has never been more critical. Whilst the urgency to address infected trees is understandable, navigating the felling licence application process remains a legal necessity in most cases. This comprehensive guide will help you identify ash dieback symptoms, understand when you need a felling licence, and navigate the Forestry Commission’s application process effectively.

Understanding Ash Dieback Disease

Ash dieback, scientifically known as Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, is a fungal disease that has spread rapidly across the UK since its first confirmed case in 2012. The disease affects ash trees of all ages, though young trees typically succumb more quickly than mature specimens.

The fungus spreads through windborne spores released from tiny white fruiting bodies that grow on fallen ash leaves. Once infected, trees experience a gradual decline that can take several years in mature specimens or just a single growing season in saplings.

• First identified in Poland in 1992, the disease has spread across Europe
• Estimated to affect 80% of UK ash trees over the coming decades
• Costs the UK economy approximately £15 billion in lost ecosystem services
• Particularly prevalent in East Anglia, Kent, and the North East of England

The disease poses significant safety risks as infected trees become brittle and prone to sudden branch failure, making timely identification and management essential for public safety.

Identifying Ash Dieback Symptoms

Early identification of ash dieback is crucial for effective management and compliance with felling regulations. The disease presents several distinctive symptoms that progress as the infection advances.

Early Stage Symptoms

• Dark brown or orange lesions on leaves during summer months
• Wilting and blackening of leaves, often retained on branches
• Diamond-shaped lesions on the bark where branches meet the trunk
• Dieback of shoots and twigs, particularly in the crown

Advanced Stage Symptoms

• Extensive crown dieback with significant leaf loss
• Epicormic growth (shoots sprouting from the trunk)
• Dark staining beneath the bark
• Increased susceptibility to secondary infections like honey fungus

It’s worth noting that symptoms can vary depending on the tree’s age, location, and overall health. Trees in Scotland and Northern England may show different progression patterns compared to those in Southern regions due to climatic variations.

When You Need a Felling Licence

The Forestry Commission requires a felling licence for most tree removal operations in England, with similar requirements enforced by Natural Resources Wales and Scottish Forestry in their respective regions. Understanding when you need a licence is essential to avoid substantial penalties.

A felling licence 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
• Trees are located in woodland areas (regardless of size)
• Multiple trees require removal as part of woodland management

Exemptions to Consider

Certain situations don’t require a felling licence, including:

• Trees in gardens (though TPO and Conservation Area rules still apply)
• Orchards and designated open spaces
• Trees posing immediate danger (though evidence must be documented)
• Trees with a diameter less than 8cm at 1.3m height
• Dead trees (though proof of death prior to felling may be required)

Even with ash dieback present, these exemptions don’t override Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) or Conservation Area restrictions, which require separate permissions from local authorities.

The Felling Licence Application Process

Applying for a felling licence through the Forestry Commission involves several steps and can take 12-16 weeks to process. Understanding the process helps ensure your application proceeds smoothly.

Step 1: Pre-Application Preparation

• Conduct a thorough tree survey documenting ash dieback symptoms
• Obtain Ordnance Survey grid references for affected trees
• Calculate timber volumes using Forestry Commission guidelines
• Consider hiring a qualified arboricultural consultant (costs typically £400-£800)

Step 2: Online Application Submission

The Forestry Commission’s online portal streamlines the application process:

• Create an account on the Government Gateway system
• Complete the felling licence application form
• Upload supporting documents including maps and management plans
• Pay the application fee (currently free for most applications)

Step 3: Consultation Period

Once submitted, your application enters a 28-day public consultation period where:

• Local authorities and statutory consultees review the proposal
• Public comments can be submitted
• The Forestry Commission may request additional information
• Site inspections may be conducted

Special Considerations for Ash Dieback Cases

The Forestry Commission has implemented specific measures to address the ash dieback crisis, recognising the urgency whilst maintaining environmental protections.

Expedited Processing

Applications citing ash dieback as the primary reason for felling may receive priority processing, particularly when:

• Trees pose demonstrable safety risks
• The application includes professional arboricultural reports
• Replanting proposals are included
• The site is near public highways or footpaths

Conditional Approvals

Felling licences for ash dieback often include specific conditions:

• Phased felling to minimise environmental impact
• Retention of standing deadwood where safe
• Mandatory replanting with diverse native species
• Protection of veteran trees showing resistance

In areas like the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, where ash trees comprise significant portions of the landscape, authorities may require detailed ecological assessments before approval.

Costs and Financial Support

Managing ash dieback can be expensive, but various support schemes exist to help landowners meet these costs.

Typical Costs Involved

• Tree surgeon fees: £150-£500 per tree (depending on size and location)
• Arboricultural reports: £400-£1,200
• Stump grinding: £60-£350 per stump
• Replanting costs: £2-£15 per sapling including protection
• Ongoing monitoring: £200-£500 annually

Available Grants and Support

The Countryside Stewardship scheme offers several grant options:

• Tree Health Restoration Grant: Up to £4,800 per hectare for restoration
• Woodland Improvement Grant: Covers up to 80% of replanting costs
• Tree Health Pilot Scheme: Available in specific regions including Devon, Cumbria, and Norfolk

Local authorities may also provide support through:

• Reduced-cost tree inspections
• Community replanting schemes
• Waived application fees for TPO works

Working with Professionals

Engaging qualified professionals ensures compliance and safety throughout the process. When selecting contractors, consider their qualifications and experience with ash dieback management.

Essential Qualifications to Look For

• Arboricultural Association Approved Contractor status
• NPTC chainsaw certificates (CS30, CS31, CS38)
• Public liability insurance (minimum £5 million)
• Experience with Forestry Commission applications
• Knowledge of local authority requirements

Questions to Ask Potential Contractors

• How many ash dieback cases have you managed?
• Can you handle the entire felling licence application?
• What’s your approach to ecological protection?
• Do you offer guarantees on replanting success?
• Can you provide references from similar projects?

Environmental and Safety Responsibilities

Removing ash trees affected by dieback requires careful consideration of environmental and safety factors. Property owners have legal obligations under various regulations including the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Wildlife Protections

Before felling begins, assess trees for:

• Bat roosts (all species are protected)
• Nesting birds (work prohibited March-August)
• Red squirrel dreys in Northern England and Scotland
• Rare lichens and fungi

Public Safety Measures

• Conduct regular inspections of infected trees near public areas
• Document safety concerns with photographs and reports
• Install warning signs where appropriate
• Consider temporary access restrictions during felling
• Maintain records for liability protection

Future Management and Replanting

Successful long-term management requires planning beyond immediate felling needs. The Forestry Commission encourages diverse replanting strategies to build resilience against future diseases.

Recommended Replacement Species

• Oak (Quercus robur) – suitable for most UK soils
• Field maple (Acer campestre) – excellent for hedgerows
• Small-leaved lime (Tilia cordata) – thrives in woodland settings
• Wild cherry (Prunus avium) – provides seasonal interest
• Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) – particularly suited to Southeast England

Monitoring and Maintenance

Post-felling management should include:

• Annual health assessments of remaining trees
• Monitoring for ash regeneration from stumps
• Protecting new plantings from deer and rabbits
• Controlling competitive vegetation for 3-5 years
• Recording resistant ash trees for potential breeding programmes

Conclusion

Managing ash dieback whilst navigating felling licence requirements demands careful planning and professional expertise. The disease’s continued spread across the UK makes understanding these processes increasingly important for property owners and land managers. By following proper identification procedures, adhering to Forestry Commission regulations, and working with qualified professionals, you can address ash dieback effectively whilst maintaining legal compliance. Remember that whilst the situation may seem overwhelming, support is available through grants, professional services, and regulatory guidance. Taking prompt, informed action not only protects public safety but also contributes to the UK’s broader efforts to preserve and restore our woodland heritage for future generations.