Section 3. Restriction on felling of trees.

(1) No person shall fell any tree or cause or permit such tree to be felled in any land, whether of his ownership or otherwise, except with the prior permission of the Divisional Forest Officer who may grant such permission subject to such conditions not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act. Provided that such permission shall not be refused if the tree is dead, diseased, over-matured, wind fallen, has become dangerous to life and property or if it is necessary for the purpose of preventing or abating a nuisance. (2) Every order granting or refusing permission shall be in writing and in the case of refusal shall contain reasons thereof. (3) Every application for application for permission under this section shall be disposed of by the Divisional Forest Officer as early as possible and not later than two months from the date of submission of the application, failing which permission shall be deemed to have been accorded.