Logging permit – when is it needed and how to apply?

Ask for help when applying for a logging permit

Tallinn logging permit database

What is a logging permit?

A logging permit is an official permit issued by a local government or the Environmental Board that gives the right to cut down trees or forests. It is not required for every single tree, but the law provides for specific situations where a logging permit is unavoidable. The purpose of the permit is to ensure that logging operations are carried out with due regard for the environment and safety, and that valuable trees or forests are not unreasonably damaged.

When is a logging permit required?

Estonian legislation sets clear rules on when trees may not be cut down without a felling permit. For example:

1. Forest Act (§ 41–42)

   • A logging permit is required to carry out clear-cutting, thinning or sanitary logging on designated forest land if the volume of work exceeds the limits set by law.

   • For example, in the case of clear-cutting, a minimum cutting age is prescribed for different tree species (e.g. pines 60 years, spruces 50 years, birches 40 years).

2. Nature Conservation Act (Sections 52 and 55)

   • A logging permit is required in protected areas, conservation areas and Natura 2000 network areas if logging operations may endanger protected species or habitats.

   • Also, protected or valuable individual trees (e.g. lindens, oaks, giant pines) may not be cut down without a special permit.

3. Local government regulations

   • Many municipalities (e.g. Tallinn, Tartu, Harju County rural municipalities) stipulate that a permit is required to remove trees growing on residential and yard land if the diameter of the tree trunk exceeds a certain limit (8 cm at breast height).

   • A permit is also required if the trees are in the immediate vicinity of a cultural monument, in parks or green areas.

For what reasons can a logging permit be successfully applied for?

A logging permit is issued if there is a justified need to cut down a tree or forest. The most common reasons are:

• Dangerous tree – if the tree is dry, hollow or damaged and poses a threat to human life, property or traffic.

• Construction and planning – if a new building, road or communication route is planned on the property, for the construction of which a tree must be removed.

• Forest management – ​​when the forest has reached the harvesting age and harvesting is carried out in accordance with the forest management plan.

• Sanitary felling – when trees are diseased or damaged (e.g. fungal diseases, storm damage).

• Clean-up work – for example, to tidy up a property, clear brush, or open up the landscape.

How to apply for a logging permit step by step?

Step 1 – Check if permission is required

• Find out the local government regulations applicable to your property.

• If it is forest land, you need to check the Forest Act and the forest register data.

• In protected areas or for trees under nature protection, consult the Environmental Board.

Step 2 – Submit an application

• The application is usually submitted digitally (e.g. on the local government website or in e-services). In Tallinn https://raie.tallinn.ee/

• The application shall state the type, number, location and reason for felling of the trees to be felled.

Step 3 – Order an expert opinion if necessary

• If the reason is the danger of the tree, the local government or the Environmental Board may require an assessment by an arborist or expert.

• An expert examination will prove whether the tree is truly dry or dangerous.

Step 4 – Wait for the decision

• The local government or city government generally makes a decision within 30 days.

• If the decision is positive, a logging permit will be issued with conditions (e.g. when and how logging may be carried out).

Step 5 – Carry out logging work in accordance with the permit

• The permit is usually valid for 1 year.

• When logging, environmental safety and conditions must be observed (e.g. there are restrictions on bird nesting periods).

What to do if a logging permit is not granted?

If a logging permit is denied, a justification must be included with the decision. The reason may be, for example:

• the tree is located in a nature reserve or is under protection;

• felling would damage the landscape or neighboring properties;

• The tree is not actually dangerous.

In this case, the applicant can appeal the decision or seek alternative solutions (e.g. apply for sanitary logging or bush cutting, if permitted).

Summary

A logging permit is not just a formality, but a necessary measure to protect nature and the interests of the community. It is important to know that a logging permit is mandatory:

• in forest management,

• in protected areas,

• for larger and more valuable trees in residential areas.

A successful application requires a clear justification, correct documentation, and, if necessary, an expert opinion. If you are unsure whether a logging permit is required or how to apply for one, an arborist or forestry specialist can help you speed up the process and avoid later problems.