When do tree or vegetation dimensions matter?
For ordinary trees outside forests, and subject to further conditions, a permit is not required where trunk circumference is no more than 80 cm, measured 130 cm above ground. For continuous woody growth, the general threshold is a total clearance area of 40 m².
These exemptions do not apply to every tree. Particular checks are needed for avenues, significant landscape features, replacement planting, protected veteran trees, protected areas and species, including nesting birds. This is not guidance for forestry felling.
Permit conditions on the Czech Public Administration Portal.
What is continuous woody growth?
This is growth whose above-ground parts touch, intertwine or overlap, where individual stems do not exceed 80 cm circumference at 130 cm above ground. A larger tree within the growth is assessed separately.
A continuous area of shrubs and young self-seeded trees may therefore be assessed differently from several isolated bushes. Calling vegetation self-seeded does not automatically exempt it. The rules also apply to mechanical woody vegetation clearance or mulching.
What to prepare for an application
- Details of the applicant and relevant nature conservation authority.
- Cadastral area, plot number and a description of the trees' location.
- A site plan identifying individual trees.
- Species or genus, quantity and trunk circumferences; for continuous growth, the clearance area.
- Your relationship to the land and any required written consent from the owner or co-owners.
- Specific reasons for felling and any power of attorney for a representative.
Apply to the locally competent nature conservation authority, often the municipal office. Another authority may be responsible in protected areas or under special arrangements. For construction projects, the procedure should also be checked in relation to planning approvals.
The authority may have its own form and request additional documents. Its decision may impose conditions, timing or replacement planting.
Can a permit be arranged in summer?
Yes. Documents and administrative procedures can be prepared throughout the year. That does not automatically permit felling at any time.
Felling generally takes place during the dormant season, usually November to March. This is the usual period, not a universal statutory date for every case. The permit conditions, tree condition and other nature conservation rules are decisive.
The Czech Public Administration Portal also explains the special prior-notification procedure; it applies only to specified grounds and does not replace a standard application for every felling job.
Emergency felling has specific conditions
Where a tree's condition clearly and immediately threatens life or health, or substantial damage is imminent, emergency felling without prior permission may apply. The completed felling must then be reported within 15 days, with evidence of the reasons.
A tree being dead for some time does not itself satisfy these conditions. The Czech Public Administration Portal sets out emergency notification requirements.
Why permits matter
The Czech Public Administration Portal lists penalties for felling without a valid permit of up to CZK 100,000 for an individual and CZK 1,000,000 for a legal entity or sole trader. These are maximum penalties for the stated infringement, not automatic fines. Other duties and measures may also apply depending on the circumstances.
Check the specific situation with the relevant nature conservation authority beforehand.
Download an application template
TEMPLATE – this is not a universal official form. Before using it, check the relevant authority's requirements and whether it provides its own form. This template is for preparing a permit application, not an emergency or prior notification.
Download an editable DOCX template · Download a printable PDF
The blank template does not submit anything. Do not automatically send completed details to GREON; the document is intended for submission to the relevant authority for your situation.
Tackling an entire overgrown site? Read our guide from scrub clearance to a prepared site or explore our tree care and felling services.