The Maharashtra Felling of Trees (Regulation) Act, 1964
The Maharashtra Felling of Trees (Regulation) Act, 1964
The Maharashtra Felling of Trees Regulation Act, 1964, regulates the cutting, burning, or damaging of specific protected tree species, such as teak, mango, and mangroves, across rural Maharashtra. It applies to all landowners and occupiers in these rural regions, requiring them to obtain written permission from a designated Tree Officer before cutting any listed trees. This law matters because it combats deforestation and preserves environmental balance by mandating landowners to plant replacement trees. Unauthorized felling triggers penalties, including fines and the confiscation of all equipment used, which deters illegal forest clearing and preserves the natural canopy of the entire state.
- 1. Short title and extent.
- 2. Definitions.
- 3. Restriction on felling of trees.
- 3A. Powers of Tree Officer to order planting of trees.
- 4. Penalty for felling trees in contravention of section 3.
- 5. Contravention of section 3 to be reported by certain officers.
- 6. Procedure in cases to be dealt with under this Act.
- 7. Award of penalty or confiscation not to interfere with other punishments.
- 8. Inquiries and proceedings to be judicial proceedings.
- 9. Officers to be public servants.
- 10. Execution of order for payment of money.
- 11. Bar of proceedings.
- 12. Exemption.
- 13. Savings.
- 14. Provisions of this Act to be in addition to any other law for the time being in force.
- 15. Power to make rules.
PDF: pending for this language.