Notification of Tree Felling

A notification of tree felling (melding vellen houtopstand) is required when you wish to fell trees or a stand of trees. Depending on the location and scale, a notification or permit may be required. The regulation is intended to ensure the protection of trees and green infrastructure.

The notification or application is submitted to the municipality, province, or national government, depending on the location and the applicable legislation. The legal basis is Article 11.126 of the Environmental Activities Decree (Besluit activiteiten leefomgeving, Bal), which determines when a notification or permit is required for felling trees.

Requirements

  • Notification requirement: For certain categories of trees or stands, a notification is required before you may fell them.
  • Permit requirement: In some cases, an environmental permit (omgevingsvergunning) or felling permit (kapvergunning) is required, depending on local regulations.
  • Location: The notification or application depends on the location (municipality, province, or national) and the status of the trees (protected, monumental, etc.).

Procedure

  • Submit notification: Submit the notification to the competent authority (municipality, province, or national) in accordance with Article 11.126 Environmental Activities Decree.
  • Assessment: The competent authority assesses whether the notification is sufficient or whether a permit is required.
  • Replanting obligation: In many cases, there is an obligation to replant or compensate for felled trees.
  • Deadline: You may only fell after permission or after the statutory waiting period has elapsed.