Tree felling licences are a key part of Ireland’s forestry regulations, helping protect woodland while ensuring that tree removal and thinning follow sustainable forest management principles. Anyone planning forestry work should understand when permission is required, what documents are available and how to submit a valid application.
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine provides official guidance through gov.ie. The department’s tree felling licence publication, first issued in November 2020 and updated on 7 October 2026, explains the legal framework, fees, forms and supporting information for applicants.
Tree felling licences and Irish forestry law
Under the Forestry Act 2014, a licence granted by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine authorises the felling or removal of trees, as well as forest thinning carried out for silvicultural reasons. The licensing system is designed to balance forestry activity with environmental protection and responsible land management.
Before work begins, applicants should establish whether their proposal requires a licence or may qualify under an exemption. The department publishes an Exempted Tree Information Note, Tree Felling Requirements, frequently asked questions and policy documents to help landowners and forestry operators assess their responsibilities.
Key guidance available to applicants
- Standards of Felling and Reforestation
- Tree Felling and Reforestation Policy
- Tree Felling Requirements
- Exempted Tree Information Note
- Frequently Asked Questions on tree felling
Application fees and payment requirements
Forestry licence applications made from 7 October 2020 are subject to a €20 fee under the Forestry (Amendment) Regulations 2020, also known as SI No. 417 of 2020. Payment may be sent by cheque, bank draft, postal order or money order with the application.
Payments must be made payable to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Applicants should not send cash by post. Invalid payments will result in the application not being accepted, and third-party payment instruments are not permitted.
Documents for a complete application
The official publication includes the current principal application form, supplementary forms for additional applicants, extra rows for trees proposed for felling and additional replanting details. Guidance notes and sample applications for thinning, clearfelling and single-line trees can also assist applicants in preparing accurate submissions.
Applicants should also review the revised felling site notice guidance, including Circular 17 of 2022. The correct notice and supporting information can help ensure that the proposed operation is properly documented.
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Contact the Felling Section
Questions about tree felling licences can be directed to the Felling Section, Forest Service, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Johnstown Castle Estate, County Wexford.
- Email: felling.forestservice@agriculture.gov.ie
- Telephone: +353 (0) 53 916 3425
Because forestry applications can involve replanting, notices and site-specific requirements, landowners should consult the official forms and guidance before submitting paperwork.
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Frequently asked questions
Do all tree removal projects require a licence?
Not necessarily. The department provides information on exempted trees and circumstances where removal may be permitted. Applicants should check the official guidance before proceeding.
How much is the application fee?
The listed fee is €20 per forestry licence application made from 7 October 2020.
Where can applicants get the form?
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine provides the main felling licence application form, supplementary forms, guidance notes, examples and site notice documents through its gov.ie publication.
Conclusion
Tree felling licences support lawful, sustainable forestry in Ireland. Checking the Forestry Act 2014 requirements, paying the correct €20 fee and using the department’s latest forms and notices can help applicants avoid preventable delays. For the most reliable information, always use the current guidance published by gov.ie before beginning tree felling work.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie
