Illegal tree felling: Protect our nature in Western Pomerania!

Illegal tree felling: Protect our nature in Western Pomerania!

Tree protection is not an easy topic in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, as there are strict regulations that affect owners and the responsible authorities equally. According to the Ostsee-Zeitung, which has dealt intensively with this issue, it is important to know that trees in this federal state are protected by law. In order to cut down a tree, you need permission from the responsible nature conservation authority. Avenue trees and rows of trees that stand along traffic areas and field paths are particularly affected by these regulations. Trees with a trunk circumference of at least 100 cm and a height of 1.30 m also enjoy special protection.

The protected tree species on private property include linden trees, beeches, oaks, elms, plane trees, walnuts and chestnuts. In order to apply for a felling permit, the applications must be submitted directly to the nature conservation authority of the Vorpommern-Greifswald district. Anyone who dares to cut down a tree without such a permit must expect severe consequences - fines of up to 100,000 euros are possible. The facts about such illegal felling are clear: they not only represent a violation of the protection of trees, but also have a significant impact on the environment. Trees produce oxygen, filter pollutants and provide an important habitat for numerous animals and plants.

Approval process and exceptions

An often underestimated aspect are the exceptions that exist under certain circumstances. “Imminent danger” is often given as the reason for unauthorized felling, but this is often a misunderstanding. According to the regulations, action can only be taken without authorization if there is blatant damage that requires immediate action. A request for felling is sensible and necessary if it is suspected that a tree is becoming a risk. Fungal fruiting bodies on the trunk, for example, are not a sufficient reason for immediate felling. If you are unsure, you should consult a tree expert who can objectively assess the situation.

An important rule for anyone involved in the felling of trees is that a permit for felling usually comes with conditions, such as the obligation to carry out replacement planting. This means having a good hand when planning new plantings - not only for legal reasons, but also for your own conscientiousness towards nature.

Legal basis and local peculiarities

If you look at the legal framework, there are various laws and regulations that can vary depending on the federal state. The Federal Nature Conservation Act (BNatSchG), for example, stipulates that the felling of trees outside the forest is prohibited between March 1st and September 30th, unless they are for shape and maintenance purposes. The state nature conservation laws of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania also play a crucial role. When felling, it is important to have sufficient knowledge of municipal tree protection regulations in order to avoid conflicts.

Court rulings repeatedly show the relevance of conscientious handling of legal regulations. Not only can fines be imposed for violations, but claims for damages can also arise if someone unlawfully fells or damages protected trees.

All in all, it can be said that trees and their felling in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania are not just about legal regulations, but also about ecological responsibility. Anyone who adheres to the existing rules and acts carefully is making an important contribution to preserving our environment. Information on the necessary procedures can also be found in the MV-Serviceportal, which offers helpful contact points and further details. For legal questions relating to tree protection, the Herfurtner Law Firm is available as a competent address.