Singapore legislation
Section 20
Section 20
Application for approval to cut trees and plants, etc.
(1)
An application for an approval to carry out or cause the carrying out of any activity mentioned in section 14(1), 18(1) or 19(1) must be —
made to the Commissioner in such manner as may be prescribed; and
accompanied by such non-refundable application fee as may be prescribed.
(2)
An application for an approval to carry out or cause to be carried out any activity referred to in section 14(1) or 18(1) may be made by a person having such estate or interest in the premises on which the tree or plant is growing as would enable the person to cut the tree or plant.
(3)
The Commissioner may require an applicant to provide the Commissioner with such further information or documents as the Commissioner considers necessary in relation to the application for approval.
(4)
The Commissioner may, upon an application by any person for approval to carry out or cause to be carried out any activity referred to in section 14(1), 18(1) or 19(1) —
refuse to grant approval under this section; or
grant approval under this section unconditionally or subject to such conditions as the Commissioner thinks fit.
(5)
The Commissioner may, at any time, by written notice revoke any approval granted under this section if he or she is satisfied —
that any information given in the application for the approval or any document submitted to the Commissioner in respect of the application is false in a material particular; or
that the person has failed to comply with any condition imposed under subsection (4)(b).
(6)
In determining whether to grant an approval under this section, the Commissioner may have regard to the following matters:
the visibility and contribution of the tree or plant in the surrounding landscape or streetscape;
the type and rarity of the species of tree or plant;
the number of trees or plants in the vicinity;
any heritage significance of the tree or plant;
whether the tree or plant may become dangerous or damage property or utility services;
soil conservation and erosion issues.