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If you have obtained permission to fell trees on your private property in Goa, you’ve likely paid a security deposit. This guide focuses exclusively on the refund process for that deposit, based on the standard terms and conditions found in official permission letters.

💰 Understanding the Security Deposit & Refund Purpose

When you receive tree felling permission, you are required to pay a security deposit. This is not a fee, but a refundable amount held by the Forest Department to ensure you fulfill your legal obligation to replant new trees.

• Amount: In the example document, the security deposit was ₹2,400.
• Primary Condition for Refund: The deposit will be refunded only upon successful replanting of the required number of forestry tree species.
• Forfeiture: If you fail to replant, the deposit will be forfeited to the “Tree Protection Fund-Goa.”

✅ The Step-by-Step Refund Process

To get your deposit back, you must follow a specific process over several years. The flowchart below illustrates your key responsibilities and the critical timeline you must adhere to.

flowchart TD
A[Pay Security Deposit<br>e.g., ₹2,400] --> B[Fell Trees Within<br>45-Day Window]
B --> C[Replant 6 Forestry Species<br>During Next Planting Season<br>Starting June 2026]
C --> D[Maintain Saplings<br>for a Minimum of 5 Years]
D --> E{Submit Refund Claim<br>Within 3-Year Deadline}
E -- "Claim Submitted<br>Within 3 Years" --> F[Forest Department<br>Verifies Replanting & Maintenance]
E -- "Claim NOT Submitted<br>Within 3 Years" --> G[Security Deposit Forfeited<br>to Tree Protection Fund]
F -- Verification Successful --> H[Security Deposit Refunded]
F -- Verification Fails --> G

⚠️ Critical Rules, Deadlines, and Conditions

1. The 3-Year Claim Deadline (The Most Important Rule)

• You must formally apply for the refund within three years from the date your tree felling permission was issued.
• Example: If your permission is dated January 3, 2026, you must submit your refund claim on or before January 2, 2029.
• Consequence of Missing the Deadline: If you do not submit your claim within this 3-year window, the Forest Department is authorized to forfeit your entire security deposit to the Tree Protection Fund, even if you have successfully replanted.

2. The 5-Year Maintenance Period

• You are legally required to maintain the newly planted saplings for a minimum of five years.
• The Forest Department will not process or approve any refund request until this five-year maintenance period is complete.
• This means you must care for the trees (watering, protection, etc.) from planting in June 2026 until at least June 2031.

3. Replanting Specifications

• Number of Trees: You must replant six forestry tree species. The number is often double the number of trees felled (in this case, 2 trees felled, 6 to be replanted).
• Location: Replanting must be done on the same property (e.g., Survey No. 153/2) as per the replanting plan you submitted with your application.
• Timing: Replanting must occur during the official planting season, which commences in June following the permission.

📄 How to Submit Your Refund Claim

1. Prepare Documentation: Gather proof of successful replanting and maintenance. This may include photographs, reports, or potentially a site inspection report from the concerned Range Forest Officer.
2. Write a Formal Application: Draft a letter/application addressed to the Sub-Divisional Forest Officer (SDFO) who issued your permission. Clearly reference your original permission number (e.g., No. 3/3/255/2025-26/SDFO/565).
3. Submit the Claim: Submit your application and supporting documents to the office of the Sub-Divisional Forest Officer, South Goa Division, Quepem well before your 3-year deadline.

Key Takeaways for a Successful Refund

• Mark Your Calendar: Note the 3-year claim deadline and the 5-year maintenance end date based on your permission letter.
• Replant Correctly: Follow the approved replanting plan using the correct species and location.
• Maintain Meticulously: Consistently care for the new saplings for the full five years.
• Apply On Time: Do not wait until the last minute to submit your formal refund claim after maintenance is complete.
• Official Source: Always refer to the specific terms and conditions in your own permission letter, as details can vary.

By understanding and meticulously following these rules, you can ensure you comply with Goa’s tree preservation laws and successfully secure the refund of your security deposit. For the most precise guidance, contact the South Goa Forest Division office in Quepem directly.