How to Apply for a Tree Cutting Permit
Under Presidential Decree No. 705 (Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines) and DENR Administrative Order (DAO) No. 2004-24, cutting, gathering, collecting, or removing trees — even on private land — requires a permit from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). This applies to all naturally growing trees with a diameter of 15 centimeters or more at breast height (approximately 1.3 meters from the ground). Without a valid DENR-issued permit, cutting trees is considered illegal and is punishable under Philippine law.
The DENR issues several types of tree cutting permits depending on the purpose, location, and ownership of the land. The three main types are: Private Land Timber Permit (PLTP), Special Private Land Timber Permit (SPLTP), and Special Tree Cutting Permit. There is also a streamlined process for trees that were planted by the owner (as opposed to naturally growing trees). This tutorial will guide you through the entire application process, from determining which permit you need to complying with post-cutting requirements like replacement planting.
Whether you need to cut a tree for house construction, road widening, safety concerns, or agricultural purposes, this comprehensive guide covers all the steps, requirements, and fees involved in legally obtaining a tree cutting permit from DENR in the Philippines.
Key Facts About Tree Cutting Permits
- Legal Basis: Presidential Decree No. 705 (Revised Forestry Code), DENR Administrative Order (DAO) No. 2004-24, and various DENR Memorandum Circulars
- When a Permit is Needed: Whenever you need to cut, gather, collect, or remove naturally growing trees with a diameter of 15cm or more at breast height (DBH), regardless of whether the trees are on public or private land
- Types of Permits: Private Land Timber Permit (PLTP), Special Private Land Timber Permit (SPLTP), Special Tree Cutting Permit, and Permit to Cut Planted Trees
- Where to Apply: Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) with jurisdiction over the area where the trees are located
- Processing Time: Approximately 15 to 30 working days depending on the type of permit, number of trees, and completeness of requirements
- Replacement Planting: Permit holders are typically required to plant replacement trees at a ratio of 1:10 (one tree cut = ten trees planted)
- Penalties for Illegal Cutting: Under PD 705, illegal logging and timber poaching carry heavy penalties including fines of up to ₱500,000 and imprisonment of up to 12 years, plus confiscation of equipment used
Warning: Cutting Trees Without a Permit is Illegal
- Anti-Illegal Logging Law: Cutting trees without a valid DENR permit is a criminal offense under PD 705 as amended. The government strictly enforces anti-illegal logging laws nationwide.
- Heavy Penalties: Violators face fines ranging from ₱50,000 to ₱500,000 and imprisonment from 2 to 12 years depending on the severity of the offense, volume of timber, and species of trees involved.
- Premium and Endangered Species: Trees classified as premium hardwood species (such as narra, molave, yakal, and kamagong) and endangered species have special restrictions. Cutting these species requires additional clearances and carries higher penalties if done illegally.
- Forest Reserves and Protected Areas: Trees located within forest reserves, national parks, watershed reservations, and protected areas under the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act have stricter rules. Tree cutting in these areas is generally prohibited except for scientific or rehabilitation purposes.
- Equipment Confiscation: Chainsaws, trucks, and other equipment used in illegal logging activities are subject to confiscation by authorities.
- Community Reporting: Barangay officials, DENR personnel, the military, and private citizens can report illegal tree cutting activities. DENR operates a 24/7 hotline for anti-illegal logging reports.
Types of Tree Cutting Permits
DENR issues different types of tree cutting permits depending on the land ownership, purpose of cutting, and species of trees involved. Understanding which permit applies to your situation is the first step in the application process.
Private Land Timber Permit (PLTP)
The PLTP is issued for cutting naturally growing trees on titled private land. This is the most common permit type for landowners who need to cut trees on their own property.
- Applies to trees on land with TCT or OCT
- Covers all naturally growing tree species
- Issued by PENRO or Regional Director
- Requires ocular inspection and tree inventory
- Replacement planting ratio: 1:10 minimum
Special Private Land Timber Permit (SPLTP)
The SPLTP is granted for specific urgent purposes such as infrastructure development, calamity response, or government-mandated projects on private land.
- For urgent or time-sensitive cutting needs
- Infrastructure, calamity, safety concerns
- Faster processing than regular PLTP
- Requires endorsement from relevant agency
- Subject to special conditions and monitoring
Special Tree Cutting Permit
This permit is issued for government infrastructure projects that require tree cutting on public lands, road rights-of-way, and government-owned property.
- For government infrastructure projects
- Road widening, bridges, public buildings
- Applied for by the implementing government agency
- Requires project documents and ECC (if applicable)
- Government agency handles replacement planting
Permit to Cut Planted Trees
This is a streamlined permit for cutting trees that were planted by the landowner or a previous owner as part of a tree farm, agroforestry, or reforestation project.
- Easier and faster processing
- Requires proof that trees were planted (not natural)
- Certificate of tree plantation registration helpful
- Lower or waived forest charges
- Still requires CENRO verification and inspection
Tip: If you are unsure which permit type applies to your situation, visit your local CENRO office and consult with the forestry officer. They will assess your needs and advise you on the appropriate permit type and requirements. Bring your land title and photos of the trees for a more productive consultation.
Step-by-Step Application Process
The tree cutting permit application process involves multiple steps, from initial consultation to compliance with post-cutting conditions. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth and successful application.
Determine the Type of Permit Needed
Before visiting the DENR office, assess your situation to determine which type of tree cutting permit you need. Consider the following factors: Is the land titled or untitled? Are the trees naturally growing or planted? What is the purpose of cutting (construction, safety, agriculture, commercial)? How many trees need to be cut? Are any of the trees classified as premium or endangered species? Based on these factors, you can determine whether you need a PLTP, SPLTP, Special Tree Cutting Permit, or Permit to Cut Planted Trees. If you are unsure, the CENRO office can help you determine the appropriate permit type during your initial visit.
Visit the CENRO with Jurisdiction Over the Area
Go to the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) that has jurisdiction over the area where the trees are located. The Philippines has multiple CENROs per province, each covering specific municipalities or districts. During your initial visit, inform the receiving clerk or forestry officer about your intention to apply for a tree cutting permit. They will provide you with the application form, explain the specific requirements for your permit type, and advise you on fees and processing time. Bring your land title and a government-issued ID for this initial consultation.
File Application with Required Documents
Submit your completed application form together with all the required documents to the CENRO. Your application package should include your application letter stating the purpose and justification for tree cutting, a certified true copy of the land title (TCT or OCT), current real property tax clearance, barangay clearance, sketch map showing the location of trees to be cut, photographs of the trees, and valid government-issued IDs. Make sure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays. The CENRO will stamp-receive your application and assign a control number for tracking purposes.
CENRO Conducts Ocular Inspection and Tree Inventory
After receiving your application, the CENRO will schedule an ocular inspection of the site. A DENR forestry officer or forester will visit the location to verify the number, species, size (diameter at breast height), condition, and exact location of the trees proposed for cutting. The officer will prepare a tree inventory report that includes each tree's species, DBH measurement, estimated volume, and GPS coordinates or location description. The officer will also assess the environmental impact of the proposed cutting, including potential effects on soil stability, water sources, and wildlife habitat. You or your authorized representative should be present during the inspection to point out the specific trees and answer any questions.
CENRO Evaluates Application and Prepares Recommendation
Based on the inspection results and submitted documents, the CENRO will evaluate your application. The evaluating officer will verify the authenticity of your land title, check if the trees are within a protected area or watershed reservation, confirm that the proposed cutting will not cause environmental harm, and calculate the applicable forest charges and government share. If the application meets all requirements, the CENRO will prepare a favorable recommendation and forward the application to the approving authority (PENRO or Regional Director, depending on the volume and type of permit). If there are deficiencies, the CENRO will notify you and give you time to comply.
PENRO or Regional Director Approves or Denies Permit
The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) or the DENR Regional Director reviews the application and the CENRO's recommendation. For small-scale permits (typically fewer than 20 trees or less than 50 cubic meters of timber), the PENRO may have authority to approve. For larger volumes or premium species, the Regional Director or even the DENR Secretary may be the approving authority. The approving authority may approve the application as submitted, approve with modifications or additional conditions, request further information or inspection, or deny the application with stated reasons. If approved, the permit will specify the exact trees allowed to be cut, the conditions, validity period, and required fees.
Pay Required Fees (Forest Charges, Government Share)
Once the permit is approved, you will be required to pay the applicable fees before the permit is released. These typically include forest charges (based on the species and volume of timber), the government share, inspection fees, and documentation fees. The CENRO cashier or the designated collecting officer will compute the exact amount based on the tree inventory report and the approved permit. Payment is made at the CENRO or at a designated government depository bank. Keep all official receipts as proof of payment — you will need to present these when claiming your permit and during any subsequent inspections.
Receive Permit with Conditions
After payment, the CENRO will release your tree cutting permit. The permit document will contain important details including: the permit number, your name and address, the exact location of the trees, the species and number of trees approved for cutting, the estimated volume of timber, the validity period (usually 60 to 90 days), and the conditions you must comply with. Common conditions include replacement planting requirements (typically 1:10 ratio), proper disposal of tree debris, prohibition on cutting during rainy season in erosion-prone areas, and coordination with barangay officials. Read all conditions carefully — failure to comply can result in permit revocation and penalties.
Cut Trees Only as Specified in the Permit
Proceed with tree cutting strictly according to the permit conditions. Cut only the specific trees listed in the permit — cutting additional trees or different species not covered by the permit is illegal and will result in penalties. Keep the original permit on-site during the entire cutting operation so you can present it to any DENR officer, police, or barangay official who may conduct spot checks. If you are hiring workers or contractors to do the actual cutting, ensure they are aware of the permit conditions and that any chainsaws used are properly registered with DENR under RA 9175 (Chainsaw Act). Complete the cutting within the permit's validity period. If you need more time, apply for an extension at the CENRO before the permit expires.
Comply with Replacement Planting Requirement
After cutting, you are required to comply with the replacement planting condition specified in your permit. The standard ratio is 1:10 — for every tree cut, you must plant ten replacement seedlings. The replacement planting can be done within your own property, in a designated area specified by the CENRO, or through contribution to a DENR-approved reforestation or National Greening Program (NGP) site. Coordinate with the CENRO regarding the species of seedlings to plant (they may specify indigenous or native species), the planting area, and the timeline for compliance. The CENRO may conduct a follow-up inspection to verify that replacement planting has been completed. Failure to comply with replacement planting requirements may result in penalties and denial of future permit applications.
Documentary Requirements
The following documents are required for tree cutting permit applications. Requirements may vary slightly depending on the type of permit and the specific CENRO office. Always confirm with your local CENRO for the most current requirements.
| No. | Document / Requirement | Details / Notes | Applicable Permit Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Application Letter / Form | Written request addressed to the CENRO stating the purpose, number and species of trees, and location. Some CENROs provide a standard application form. | All types |
| 2 | Land Title (TCT or OCT) | Certified true copy from the Register of Deeds. If untitled, submit tax declaration with proof of ownership or possession. | PLTP, SPLTP |
| 3 | Tax Clearance from Local Treasurer | Current real property tax clearance or certificate of no tax delinquency from the Municipal/City Treasurer's Office | PLTP, SPLTP |
| 4 | Barangay Clearance | Clearance from the barangay where the trees are located, certifying ownership and the purpose of tree cutting | All types |
| 5 | Sketch Map of the Area | Hand-drawn or surveyor-prepared map showing the property boundaries and the location of each tree to be cut, with approximate measurements and landmarks | All types |
| 6 | Photos of the Trees | Clear photographs of each tree to be cut, showing the trunk (with a measuring tape for DBH if possible), the crown, and the surrounding area | All types |
| 7 | Valid Government-Issued IDs | At least two valid IDs of the applicant (e.g., Philippine ID, driver's license, passport, voter's ID, postal ID). If applying through a representative, include a Special Power of Attorney (SPA). | All types |
| 8 | Justification / Purpose Statement | Detailed explanation of why the trees need to be cut (e.g., house construction, road widening, safety hazard, agricultural development). Supporting documents like building permits or project plans strengthen the application. | All types |
| 9 | Environmental Compliance Certificate (if applicable) | If tree cutting is part of a larger project that requires an ECC under PD 1586, the ECC or Certificate of Non-Coverage (CNC) must be submitted | SPLTP, Special TCP |
| 10 | Government Project Documents (for government projects) | Project proposal, detailed engineering design, agency endorsement letter, resolution of the Sangguniang Bayan/Panlungsod, and proof of project funding appropriation | Special TCP |
Note: Requirements may vary slightly between CENRO offices and depending on the specific circumstances of your application. Always verify the complete list of requirements with your local CENRO before filing. Bring original documents for verification purposes and submit photocopies unless certified true copies are specifically required.
Complete Application Example
Below is a sample tree cutting permit application letter for cutting 5 trees on a private residential lot for house construction. Use this as a guide when preparing your own application.
[Date: January 15, 2026]
The Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer
CENRO - [Your Municipality/City]
DENR Region [Number]
[Address]
Sir/Madam:
SUBJECT: APPLICATION FOR PRIVATE LAND TIMBER PERMIT (PLTP)
Cutting of Five (5) Trees on Private Residential Lot
I, JUAN DELA CRUZ, Filipino, of legal age, married,
and a resident of Barangay San Isidro, Municipality of
[Your Municipality], Province of [Your Province],
respectfully apply for a Private Land Timber Permit (PLTP)
for the cutting of five (5) naturally growing trees located
within my private residential lot.
PROPERTY DETAILS:
- Location: Lot 15, Block 3, Barangay San Isidro,
Municipality of [Your Municipality],
Province of [Your Province]
- Land Title: Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT)
No. T-12345, registered under my name
- Total Lot Area: 500 square meters
- Land Use: Residential
TREES TO BE CUT:
+----+------------+----------+--------------------+
| No.| Species | DBH (cm) | Location on Lot |
+----+------------+----------+--------------------+
| 1 | Mahogany | 35 | Front yard, left |
| 2 | Mahogany | 28 | Front yard, right |
| 3 | Acacia | 42 | Backyard, center |
| 4 | Ipil-ipil | 20 | Side yard, east |
| 5 | Gmelina | 25 | Side yard, west |
+----+------------+----------+--------------------+
PURPOSE / JUSTIFICATION:
The above-described trees need to be cut to make way
for the construction of a two-storey residential house
on the said lot. A building permit has been applied for
with the Municipal Engineering Office. The trees are
located in areas that will be occupied by the house
foundation, driveway, and septic tank, making their
removal necessary for the construction to proceed.
I commit to complying with all conditions that may be
imposed, including but not limited to:
1. Payment of all applicable forest charges and fees
2. Replacement planting at the required ratio (1:10)
3. Cutting only the trees specified in this application
4. Completing the cutting within the permit validity
ATTACHED DOCUMENTS:
1. Certified True Copy of TCT No. T-12345
2. Real Property Tax Clearance (current year)
3. Barangay Clearance from Brgy. San Isidro
4. Sketch Map with trees marked
5. Photographs of the five (5) trees
6. Photocopy of Valid IDs (Philippine ID, Driver's License)
7. Building Permit Application (Municipal Engineering)
I hereby certify that the above information is true and
correct to the best of my knowledge.
Respectfully yours,
_________________________
JUAN DELA CRUZ
Applicant
Contact No.: 0917-XXX-XXXX
Email: juan.delacruz@email.comTip: Customize this template according to your specific situation. Replace all placeholder information (enclosed in brackets) with your actual details. If you have a building permit, construction plan, or any other supporting document that justifies the tree cutting, attach it to strengthen your application. The CENRO may also provide their own standard application form which you can fill out instead of or in addition to this letter.
Fees and Charges
Fees for tree cutting permits vary depending on the species, volume, and type of permit. Below is a general guide to the fees involved. Exact amounts will be computed by the CENRO based on the tree inventory report.
| Fee Type | Basis | Estimated Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forest Charges | Per species and volume (cubic meters) | ₱50 - ₱500 per cu.m. | Premium species (narra, molave, yakal) have higher charges; common species (mahogany, gmelina) have lower rates |
| Government Share | Percentage of appraised timber value | Varies by species and market value | Computed based on current DENR price list for timber species |
| Inspection Fee | Per ocular inspection visit | ₱200 - ₱500 | Covers transportation and per diem of the inspecting officer; may vary by location distance |
| Documentation / Processing Fee | Per application | ₱100 - ₱300 | Covers administrative processing, form, and permit document preparation |
| Seedling Cost (Replacement Planting) | Per seedling (1:10 ratio) | ₱15 - ₱50 per seedling | May source from DENR nursery, local government nursery, or private nursery; some CENROs provide free seedlings |
Sample Fee Computation
For the example application above (5 trees, residential lot):
- Forest Charges (5 trees, ~3 cu.m.)~₱750
- Government Share~₱500
- Inspection Fee~₱300
- Documentation Fee~₱200
- Seedlings (50 pcs @ ₱25)~₱1,250
- Estimated Total~₱3,000
Important Fee Notes
- Fees vary significantly by species — premium hardwoods (narra, molave, yakal, kamagong) cost substantially more than common species
- Volume is computed using standard DENR timber scaling formulas based on DBH and estimated height
- Some CENROs may waive or reduce fees for calamity-related or safety-related tree cutting
- Planted trees (with proof of planting) typically have lower or waived forest charges
- Always request an official receipt for any payment made to DENR
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a permit even for just one tree?
Yes. Under PD 705 and DAO 2004-24, any naturally growing tree with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 15 centimeters or more requires a DENR permit before cutting, regardless of whether it is just one tree. The law does not provide an exemption based on the number of trees. Even a single large tree on your own titled property technically requires a permit. However, in practice, many CENROs have streamlined processes for single-tree or small-scale applications. Some municipalities have also entered into agreements with DENR to simplify the process for residential lot owners. Visit your local CENRO to determine the specific procedure applicable to your situation.
What about fruit trees? Do I need a permit to cut them?
Fruit-bearing trees that were planted by the landowner (such as mango, coconut, calamansi, and other fruit trees) are generally considered agricultural crops and may not require a DENR tree cutting permit. However, naturally growing fruit trees — particularly large, old trees — may still be subject to DENR regulations. Coconut trees have their own regulations under the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), and cutting coconut trees may require PCA clearance. For mango trees, some local government units (LGUs) have specific ordinances regulating their cutting. As a rule of thumb: if the fruit tree was planted and is on private titled land, you likely do not need a DENR permit, but check with your CENRO and LGU to be sure.
How long does the application process take?
The processing time for a tree cutting permit typically ranges from 15 to 30 working days, depending on the type of permit, the number of trees involved, the complexity of the application, and the workload of the CENRO. Factors that can speed up or slow down the process include: completeness of submitted documents (incomplete requirements cause delays), availability of the DENR inspector for the ocular inspection, whether the trees involve premium or endangered species (requiring additional review), the approving authority level (PENRO approval is faster than Regional Director approval), and the volume of pending applications at the CENRO. To minimize delays, ensure all documents are complete and accurate before filing, and follow up regularly with the CENRO.
What if the tree is dangerous and about to fall?
If a tree poses an immediate danger to life or property (e.g., a dead tree leaning toward a house, a tree with a severely damaged trunk after a storm, or a tree with roots undermining a building foundation), you should immediately report the situation to your barangay officials and the nearest CENRO. In emergency situations, the CENRO may issue an emergency permit or authorize immediate cutting with expedited processing. Some LGUs have Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (DRRMO) that can coordinate with DENR for emergency tree removal. However, even in urgent cases, it is strongly advisable to document the dangerous condition with photographs and written reports from barangay officials before cutting. This documentation will protect you if questions arise about the legality of the cutting later. Never assume “emergency” exempts you from all requirements.
What about trees damaged or uprooted by a typhoon?
After a typhoon or major storm, many trees may be damaged, uprooted, or pose safety hazards. DENR typically issues special memorandum orders or guidelines for handling typhoon-damaged trees. These guidelines may allow for expedited processing of tree removal permits and salvage of downed timber. In past typhoons, DENR has issued blanket authorities to LGUs to clear roads and public areas of fallen trees. For trees on private property, you should still coordinate with CENRO, but the process is usually faster and may be waived for already-fallen trees that just need to be removed (as opposed to standing trees that need to be cut). Keep photographic evidence of the storm damage and file your permit application as soon as possible after the calamity. The CENRO may conduct a post-typhoon area assessment that covers multiple applicants at once.
What is replacement planting and how does it work?
Replacement planting is a mandatory condition attached to tree cutting permits. It requires the permit holder to plant new trees to compensate for the trees that were cut. The standard ratio is 1:10 — meaning for every tree cut, you must plant ten (10) replacement seedlings. The purpose is to ensure that tree cutting does not result in a net loss of forest cover. The CENRO will specify the details of your replacement planting obligation, including: the number of seedlings to plant, the species (often indigenous or native species), where to plant (your own land, a communal area, or a DENR reforestation site), and the timeline for completion (usually within 6 months to 1 year after cutting). Seedlings can be sourced from DENR nurseries, LGU nurseries, or private nurseries. Some CENROs allow you to contribute cash for the National Greening Program (NGP) instead of doing the physical planting yourself. The CENRO may conduct a follow-up inspection to verify compliance.
Can the barangay issue a tree cutting permit?
No. The barangay does not have the authority to issue tree cutting permits. Under Philippine law, only DENR (through its field offices: CENRO, PENRO, and Regional Office) can issue permits to cut trees. The barangay can issue a barangay clearance which is one of the required documents for a DENR tree cutting permit application, but this clearance is not the same as a cutting permit. Some people mistakenly believe that a barangay permit or clearance is sufficient to cut trees — this is not the case. A barangay clearance simply certifies that you are a resident and that the barangay has no objection to the cutting, but the actual authority to permit tree cutting rests solely with DENR. Any person who cuts trees based only on a barangay clearance without a DENR permit may still be held liable for illegal logging.
What are the penalties for illegally cutting trees?
Penalties for illegal tree cutting under PD 705 (Revised Forestry Code) as amended are severe. For unauthorized cutting of trees, the penalties include: imprisonment of 2 to 4 years and a fine of ₱50,000 to ₱100,000 for small-scale violations; imprisonment of 4 to 8 years and a fine of ₱100,000 to ₱300,000 for medium-scale violations; and imprisonment of 6 to 12 years and a fine of ₱200,000 to ₱500,000 for large-scale violations or those involving premium species. In addition, all timber and forest products illegally cut are subject to confiscation, along with all equipment, vehicles, and tools used in the illegal activity. Repeat offenders face higher penalties. Government officials who facilitate or connive in illegal logging face additional penalties under anti-graft and corruption laws. Civil liability for environmental damages may also be imposed separately.
Important Reminders
- Always get the permit first: Never cut any tree without first securing a valid DENR tree cutting permit. Even if the tree is on your own private property, you need a permit for naturally growing trees with a DBH of 15cm or more. Apply for the permit well in advance of your planned cutting date.
- CENRO conducts an on-site inspection: Expect a DENR forester to visit your property to inspect and inventory the trees. Be present during the inspection or send an authorized representative who can identify the specific trees and answer questions about the purpose.
- Replacement planting is mandatory: Most permits require replacement planting at a 1:10 ratio (one tree cut = ten trees planted). This is a legal obligation, not optional. Failure to comply may result in penalties and denial of future permit applications.
- Premium species have higher restrictions: Trees classified as premium hardwood species (such as narra, molave, yakal, kamagong, and ipil) are subject to stricter regulations, higher fees, and additional clearances. Cutting of narra trees, the Philippine national tree, requires special authorization from the DENR Secretary.
- Keep the permit on-site during cutting: Always have the original tree cutting permit available at the cutting site. DENR officers, police, barangay officials, or military personnel may conduct spot checks at any time. Failure to present a valid permit during cutting constitutes illegal logging.
- Penalties are severe: Under PD 705 and anti-illegal logging laws, cutting trees without a permit carries penalties of imprisonment (2 to 12 years) and fines (₱50,000 to ₱500,000), plus confiscation of timber and equipment. Do not risk these penalties.
- Chainsaws must be registered: If you or your workers will use a chainsaw for tree cutting, ensure it is registered with DENR under RA 9175 (Chainsaw Act). Using an unregistered chainsaw is a separate criminal offense.
- Coordinate with your barangay: Inform your barangay officials before and during the tree cutting activity. This avoids misunderstandings and potential complaints from neighbors.
- Document everything: Keep copies of your application, receipts, permit, photos before and after cutting, and compliance reports. These records protect you in case of disputes or future inquiries.
- Permit has an expiration date: Tree cutting permits have a validity period (usually 60 to 90 days). Complete the cutting within this period. If you need an extension, apply at the CENRO before the permit expires — cutting after expiration is treated as unpermitted cutting.
Need Help? Contact DENR
DENR CENRO / PENRO
- Visit the CENRO (Community Environment and Natural Resources Office) with jurisdiction over the area where the trees are located
- CENRO handles initial applications, inspections, and processing of tree cutting permits
- PENRO (Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office) handles provincial-level approvals and appeals
- Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (except holidays)
- Locate your nearest CENRO through the DENR website or by calling the DENR Regional Office
Forest Management Bureau (FMB)
- FMB is the DENR bureau responsible for forestry policies and regulations, including tree cutting permits
- Address: Visayas Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City 1100
- Phone: (02) 8920-4301 (DENR trunkline)
- Website: www.denr.gov.ph
- FMB Website: forestry.denr.gov.ph
- Anti-Illegal Logging Hotline: Contact your nearest DENR Regional Office or the DENR Action Center at (02) 8920-4301
Additional Resources
- DENR Central Office: Visayas Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City 1100 | Trunkline: (02) 8920-4301
- DENR Public Assistance: Email correspondence to the DENR Public Affairs Office or visit the DENR Citizens' Desk at the Central Office
- Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA): For complaints about processing delays or red tape, contact ARTA at (02) 8478-5093 or file a complaint at www.arta.gov.ph
- Legal Assistance: For legal questions about tree cutting regulations, consult the Public Attorney's Office (PAO) or a private lawyer specializing in environmental law
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general informational purposes only. The requirements, steps, fees, and procedures mentioned here may vary depending on the DENR you visit. We recommend visiting your nearest DENR first to confirm the specific requirements and process before preparing your documents.