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The UKFS is the technical standard for forestry across the UK, which provides the foundation for sustainable forest management. It has been developed specifically for forestry in the UK and is based on applying internationally agreed criteria which support the delivery of sustainable forest management and recognise the need to balance environmental, economic and social objectives. 

The Standard has been updated to reflect improvements in scientific knowledge, developments in international approaches to forestry, new or amended legislation, and new information about best forestry practice.

Importantly, the new edition aims to make forests more resilient to a changing climate and the increased risk of pests and diseases so they can continue to deliver multiple benefits.

A 12-month transition period is in place to allow guidance to be updated, users to become familiar with the new edition, and draft woodland plans to be finalised. Updated Good Forestry Practice Requirements will be applied to existing forest plans at the time of renewal. The 5th edition will be applied after 1st October 2024. Until then, the 4th edition (2017) should be used.

UKFS 5th edition – to be applied after 1st October 2024

Download UKFS 5th edition

UKFS 4th edition – to be used until 1st October 2024

Cover of the UK Forestry Standard

Download UKFS 4th edition

Supporting guidance can be found in the following UKFS publications:

Country guidance, where applicable, can be found at:

Tools & Resources
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Tools & Resources