Forest Rules, 2079 (2022).

These Rules are framed in exercise of the powers conferred by section 83 of Forest Act, 2076 (2019). The primary aim of the Rules is to ensure sustainable forest management, conserve biodiversity, and regulate the harvesting and sale of forest products while balancing environmental protection with community and development needs. The Rules consists of 17 chapters and 137 Rules. They prohibit changes in the designated use of national forests without approval from the Government of Nepal. The right of access may be provided to forest area for which change of use is approved. The government shall determine and publish boundaries of the national forest and inter-regional forests. The Rules make provisions relating to entry into protected forest areas, the preparation and approval procedure for forest utilization plans, establishment of botanical garden, planting of trees inside and outside forest areas and removal of trees from settlements. The Forest Officer shall ensure the protection and development of water bodies including water sources, reservoirs, lakes, glacial lakes, streams, and rivers in their respective jurisdiction.
The forest department must prepare integrated strategic management plans and annual operational plans are for the sustainable use of forest resources. These plans should include long-term goals for forest conservation, management of biodiversity, wetlands, and valuable species like medicinal plants. The provisions for timber collection, valuation, and auction processes are made. The Rules specify that timber and other forest products can only be collected within the quantities allowed by the approved plans, and outline the conditions under which these products can be sold to local communities or commercially auctioned. The procedure for collection of timber by community forest users is also laid down. They may implement environmental conservation programs by including them in the approved work plan based on the criteria formulated by the government.
The Rules provide for formation of partnership forest user group to develop, protect and manage any part of the forest managed by the government. The rules relating to administration and management of such partnership forests is laid down. Further, provisions for use of national forests for development projects is made. The Rules also provide for regulations for private forests, import and export of forest products, protection of forests from disasters and fires, and local level management. They contain mechanisms like the District Forest Product Supply Committee to oversee fair distribution and supply of forest products to local residents. Additionally, the Rules set clear guidelines for the monitoring, reporting, and revenue-sharing processes associated with forest product collection and sale, ensuring transparency and accountability in forest governance.