The unprecedented high winds resulting from Storm Darragh have had a significant impact and taken a toll on trees, woodlands and forests across Wales and our thoughts are with those impacted as the recovery process begins.

Generally in Wales under the Forestry Act, a felling licence granted by Natural Resources Wales is required for the felling of growing trees unless they are covered by an exception under the Act.

If you are claiming an exception from the requirement to seek a felling licence (for example, where trees are posing an immediate danger), it’s your responsibility to record any evidence of how it applies to the felling you are intending to carry out. We strongly advise that you take multiple photographs of any situation where you are claiming an exception and record decisions made in your risk assessment and method statement for the task, and retain these records for at least three years.

Tree felling required to prevent a danger or abate a nuisance is covered by an exception. However, there must be a real and immediate danger, rather than a perceived risk which may become a danger in the future. An example of this would be to prevent immediate danger to a footpath, road or property.

Another exception exists for trees felled by or at the request of statutory undertakers (such as power and water companies) where the trees have blown onto power lines and or blown across roads and tracks that are required to safely access the line.

If you are unsure if an exception exists, then we strongly advise you to consult a Forestry Professional or seek a felling licence.

The risk of windthrown trees becoming susceptible to tree pests and pathogens need to be considered by landowners and forestry agents, any concerns can be reported using Treealert https://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/tools-and-resources/fthr/tree-alert/

The Forest Industry Safety Accord Home published core guidance informing those working in Forestry clearly setting out guidance on managing Health and Safety in Forestry and setting out roles and responsibilities. This covers a range of subjects including but not limited to Emergency Planning, Electricity at Work, Working near Railways, Chainsaw Clearance of Windblow.

The full list of exceptions can be found here Natural Resources Wales / Check if you need a felling licence