Liang Honggang, a lawyer of Beijing Da Yue Law Firm, said in an interview with the newspaper that in China, the ownership, use and logging rights of trees are separated. Even the trees planted by oneself, or the trees harvested from hilly land or forest land contracted by individuals, must apply to the competent department for a cutting license. Even if permission is obtained, it is illegal to cut trees without authorization in violation of the location, quantity, tree species and methods stipulated in the cutting license. If the circumstances are serious, it also constitutes the crime of deforestation.

"But it's not illegal to cut down trees." Liang Honggang said that individuals can cut down scattered trees on their private plots and in front of their houses without obtaining a cutting license. Article 32 of the Forest Law stipulates: "To cut trees, you must apply for a cutting license and cut in accordance with the provisions of the license." Any individual or unit must cut in accordance with the scope, quantity, tree species and methods specified in the cutting license. It is illegal to cut trees without a cutting license or to cut trees beyond the scope and quantity permitted by the license. If the number is small, administrative punishment shall be given to the loggers; If the amount is relatively large and constitutes a crime, it shall be punished with the crime of deforestation.

"Cutting down scattered trees in front of and behind the house does not require approval"