On 13/9, representatives from Xuan Huong Ward People's Committee in Da Lat announced that a 27-year-old man from the An Son area was fined 35 million VND. The penalty was imposed for his unauthorized felling of a tree, violating Government Decree 339/2026/ND-CP.
Prior to the fine, the man had uploaded two short videos to TikTok. These videos documented the process of him felling one three-leaf pine tree, approximately 5 meters tall with a 35-centimeter trunk diameter, located within his private property.
In the videos, the man demonstrated using tools to debark the tree at its base and explained methods to ensure the pine would dry out. He then used a chainsaw to cut down the tree, stating that he intended to use the wood for tables and chairs and that the tree was decades old.
After discovering the videos, Xuan Huong Ward authorities invited the man for questioning on 7/9. Two days later, the local government issued an administrative violation record.
Nguyen Ngoc Hau, Vice Chairman of Xuan Huong Ward People's Committee, confirmed that the felled pine was on private property and not part of forest land. However, local authorities emphasized that felling trees must comply with regulations concerning green tree management.
According to Hau, residents who wish to fell a tree must notify local authorities. The authorities will then coordinate with relevant units to inspect the site and assess its condition before the competent authority reviews the felling request.
"In this case, the homeowner cut the tree himself without seeking permission," Hau said, noting this was a new case handled by the ward. He added that other residents needing to fell trees must still follow established procedures.
