Commentary on Sections Part 3 – Felling of Trees (Restriction of felling) Section 16 – Application for felling licence
The application for felling licences will be prescribed in subordinate regulations. It is expected that the application will include: details of the location and area of trees to be felled, a map showing the woodland, special features or restrictions such as Tree Preservation Orders or ancient monuments, and the regeneration or other plans for the felled area, and any other information required by the felling management plan. The management plan must be agreed by the Department and the process may involve an inspection by a forest officer of the area to be felled.
The Department has a power, prescribed by regulations, to charge a fee to cover its administration costs, and the cost of the inspection (section 21 – Fees in connection with felling licences). Regulations under section 16 must be made by laying of a draft before and approval by resolution of the Assembly.