The Philippines has been battling deforestation for decades, with the country losing around 47,000 hectares of rainforest every year. In fact, we’ve already lost about 60% of our forest cover over the past 80 years—a staggering reality that highlights why strict tree-cutting regulations exist.

Take the case of a property owner who thought he could freely cut down a tree on his own land without a permit. Thinking it was just a simple removal, he went ahead—only to face legal trouble and hefty fines. It was an expensive lesson on why securing a permit from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is non-negotiable, even for privately owned trees.

If you’re planning to cut a tree, following the legal process isn’t just about avoiding penalties—it’s about being a responsible property owner who contributes to protecting the environment.

Steps in Obtaining Tree-Cutting Permit

Step 1: Determine if you need a permit

Before proceeding with any tree-cutting activities, it’s essential to assess whether a permit is required. In the Philippines, tree-cutting regulations are strictly enforced, particularly for species protected under national forestry laws. Unauthorized cutting can lead to legal penalties, including fines and imprisonment, as stipulated in the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines (Presidential Decree No. 705).

Identifying Protected Tree Species

Certain tree species are classified as protected due to their ecological significance or declining populations. Notable protected species in the Philippines include:

• Narra (Pterocarpus indicus): Recognized as the national tree, narra is valued for its durable hardwood. However, extensive logging has led to its classification as a vulnerable species.
• Kamagong (Diospyros blancoi): Also known as Philippine ebony, kamagong is renowned for its dense, dark wood. Overharvesting has rendered it critically endangered. 
• Molave (Vitex parviflora): This hardwood species is commonly used in construction but is heavily regulated due to its declining numbers.
• Almaciga (Agathis philippinensis): An important source of resin, almaciga is now endangered due to habitat loss and resin overharvesting.
• Philippine Teak (Tectona philippinensis): Native to the Philippines, this species is endangered due to deforestation and land conversion.

Consulting the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)

To determine if the tree you intend to cut is protected, consult the nearest DENR office. They maintain updated lists of protected species and can provide guidance on permit requirements. The DENR Administrative Order No. 2021-11 outlines the guidelines for applying for tree-cutting permits, including application requirements and the approval process

Considering Local Government Regulations

In addition to national laws, local government units (LGUs) may have ordinances regulating tree-cutting activities. Even if a species isn’t nationally protected, local regulations might still require you to obtain a permit. It’s advisable to check with your local environment and natural resources office for specific guidelines.

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Step 2: Prepare the necessary documents

Once you’ve confirmed that a tree-cutting permit is required, the next step is to gather and submit the necessary documents. Proper documentation ensures that your application is processed smoothly and in compliance with the guidelines set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Incomplete or incorrect documents can delay approval or even result in application denial. 

Required Documents for a Tree-Cutting Permit

• Written Application Letter
  • A formal request addressed to the DENR office in your region.
  • Must include your name, address, contact information, and a clear statement of your intent to cut down a tree.
  • If you are applying as a company, include your business details and the name of the authorized representative.
• Proof of Ownership
  • Land Title or Tax Declaration: To confirm that the property where the tree stands belongs to you.
  • If you are renting or leasing the property, provide a Notarized Authorization Letterfrom the landowner granting permission for the tree-cutting request.
• Tree-Cutting Plan: A detailed report that outlines the specifics of the tree you intend to cut, including:
  • Tree Species – The common and scientific name (if available).
  • Location – Exact address and property coordinates (if required).
  • Tree Size – Diameter and height of the tree.
  • Reason for Cutting – Justification for removal, such as safety hazards, infrastructure development, or tree disease.
  • Proposed Replanting Plan– In some cases, DENR requires the applicant to plant replacement trees to compensate for environmental impact.
• Barangay Endorsement or Certificate: Some local government units (LGUs) require clearance from the barangay where the tree is located. This document confirms that the tree removal is approved at the community level.
• Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) or Certificate of Non-Coverage (CNC)(if applicable)
  • If the tree cutting is part of a large-scale development project (e.g., real estate, road expansion), an ECC from the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB-DENR) may be required.
  • Smaller projects may qualify for a CNC, which exempts them from requiring an ECC.

Additional Requirements for Specific Cases

• For Public Land or Government Property: 
  A special clearance from DENR’s Forest Management Bureau (FMB) or LGU Environmental Office may be needed.
• For Endangered or Protected Tree Species: 
  Special permits and compliance with Republic Act No. 9147 (Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act) are required.

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Step 3: Submit the application

After preparing all the necessary documents, the next step is to submit your application to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). This process ensures that your request undergoes proper evaluation and approval before proceeding with tree-cutting activities.

Where to Submit Your Application

You can submit your tree-cutting permit application at the nearest DENR Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) or Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) in your area. The specific office will depend on the location of the tree and the type of permit required.

• CENRO (Community Level) – Handles most tree-cutting applications for private properties and small-scale requests.
• PENRO (Provincial Level) – Processes applications for larger areas, including commercial and industrial projects.
• DENR Regional Office – If the tree-cutting involves protected species or large-scale developments, applications may need to be submitted at the regional level.

To locate the nearest DENR office, visit their official website or check the DENR Regional Offices Directory in our downloadable application guide.

How to Submit Your Application

1. Visit the DENR Office in Person

• Bring all required documents in hard copy (printed and signed).
• Some offices may require multiple copies for internal processing.
• Arrive during office hours (typically 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday) to ensure proper submission.

2. Check for Additional Requirements

• Some DENR offices may request an on-site inspection before approving the permit.
• If cutting multiple trees, a Tree Inventory List might be required.

3. Request an Acknowledgment Receipt

• Once submitted, ask for a receipt or reference number as proof of application.
• This will help track your application status and serve as a reference for follow-ups.

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Step 4: Wait for the approval

Once you have submitted your tree-cutting permit application, the next step is to wait for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to review and approve your request. This evaluation process ensures that the tree-cutting activity is justified, complies with environmental laws, and minimizes potential ecological damage.

What Happens During the Approval Process?

1. Document Review

• The DENR office will verify the completeness and accuracy of your submitted documents, including proof of ownership, the tree-cutting plan, and any barangay or local government clearances.
• If there are missing or incorrect documents, you may be asked to provide additional requirements before proceeding to the next step.

2. On-Site Inspection (if required):

In most cases, DENR officers will conduct a physical inspection of the tree(s) you intend to cut. During the inspection, they will assess;

• The size and species of the tree.
• The reason for cutting, ensuring it is valid (e.g., safety hazard, disease, infrastructure development).
• Possible environmental impact,such as effects on soil stability, nearby water sources, or biodiversity.
• If the tree is protected or endangered, DENR may deny the request or require special permits.

3. Approval or Denial of the Permit

• If the evaluation confirms that the tree-cutting activity is necessary and compliant with laws, DENR will issue the permit.
• If denied, the applicant will receive an explanation and may be advised to explore alternative solutions, such as tree relocation instead of removal.

How Long Does the Approval Process Take?

The processing time varies by location and complexity of the request.

• In simple cases (e.g., cutting a non-protected tree on private land), approval may take a few weeks.
• If the tree is protected, large, or part of a commercial project, expect a longer process due to stricter environmental assessments.

Delays may occur due to backlogs, incomplete documents, or pending inspections.

How to Check the Status of Your Application?

• Visit the DENR office where you applied and inquire about the status.
• Some regional DENR offices may offer hotlines or online tracking (availability varies, so check with your local office).
• Keep your acknowledgment receipt or reference number to make follow-ups easier.

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Step 5: Pay the necessary fees

Once your tree-cutting permit application is approved, the next step is to settle the required fees before proceeding with the actual tree removal. These fees vary depending on several factors, including the tree species, size, location, and purpose of cutting.

How Much Are the Tree-Cutting Fees?

The exact fees are not standardized nationwide and may vary based on local government regulations and DENR guidelines. However, common cost considerations include:

1. Processing Fee

• A standard permit processing fee is usually charged by the DENR for administrative and inspection costs.
• The amount varies by region but typically ranges from ₱500 to ₱2,000, depending on the complexity of the application.

2. Forest Charges (if applicable)

• If the tree is a commercially valuable species (e.g., narra, mahogany, molave), forest charges may apply based on the volume of timber harvested.
• The rate is typically calculated per cubic meter of wood and follows DENR Administrative Order No. 2021-11.

3. Replacement/Replanting Fee (if required)

• Some permits require applicants to plant replacement trees to compensate for environmental loss.
• The cost of replacement trees varies but may range from ₱50 to ₱500 per seedling, depending on the species and location.

4. LGU or Barangay Fees (if applicable)

• Some local government units (LGUs) impose additional fees or require a separate tree-cutting clearance at the barangay or municipal level.
• In urban areas, penalties for tree removal without a permit can be ₱10,000 or more, so ensuring compliance is crucial.

Where to Pay the Fees?

• Payments are typically made at the DENR office where the permit was processed.
• Some LGUs or DENR regional offices may also require payments to be made through designated government banks or treasury offices.
• Always request an official receipt to avoid issues during the tree-cutting process.

What Happens After Payment?

Once the necessary fees are settled, you will be given the official tree-cutting permit, which allows you to proceed with removing th

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Step 6: Comply with permit conditions and conduct tree-cutting properly

After securing your official tree-cutting permit, the final step is to ensure that the tree removal is carried out responsibly and in compliance with the conditions set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Failure to follow the permit’s guidelines could result in penalties, revocation of permits, or even legal action.

Key Conditions to Follow

1. Follow the Approved Cutting Plan

• You are only allowed to cut the specific tree(s) listed in your permit.
• Unauthorized removal of additional trees, especially protected species, is a violation of forestry laws and may result in hefty fines or imprisonment under Presidential Decree No. 705 (Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines).

2. Use Proper Tree-Cutting Methods

• If cutting large trees, hiring a licensed arborist or professional tree-cutting service is recommended to ensure safety and minimize damage to surrounding areas.
• If the tree is near structures, power lines, or roads, local authorities may require additional safety measures, such as traffic control or protective barriers.

3. Conduct Tree Cutting in the Presence of DENR Representatives (if required)

• In some cases, DENR officers or barangay officials may be required to oversee the tree-cutting process to ensure compliance.
• Certain projects, such as large-scale land clearing, may require additional monitoring from Environmental Management Bureau (EMB-DENR) representatives.

4. Properly Dispose of Tree Debris

Cut trees must be disposed of according to DENR regulations. Options include

• Utilization for wood products (if applicable).
• Recycling into mulch or compost.
• Disposal at designated waste sites if required by LGU regulations.

5. Comply with Replanting or Replacement Requirements (if applicable)

• Some permits include a condition to plant replacement trees in designated areas.
• The number of trees to be replanted is usually specified in the permit.
• If replanting is required, you must submit proof (e.g., photos, reports) to DENR or LGU authorities.

Post-Cutting Compliance

• Once the tree is cut, you may need to submit a completion report to DENR, confirming that the cutting was done according to the permit conditions.
• If the permit included a reforestation commitment, you may be required to provide updates on the survival rate of the newly planted trees.

Final Reminder: Avoid Unauthorized Tree Cutting

Unauthorized tree cutting is considered illegal logging and is punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both under Philippine forestry laws. If unsure about the process, always consult with DENR or legal experts before proceeding.

With this final step, you have now legally and responsibly completed the tree-cutting process.