Tree Permits: Everything You Need to Know
Why Do You Need a Tree Permit?
Many cities and counties require tree permits to regulate the removal, pruning, or planting of trees. These permits help maintain urban forests, protect wildlife, and ensure safety in residential and commercial areas.
A tree permit may be required for:
- Removing a tree on private or public property
- Pruning large or protected trees
- Planting new trees in regulated zones
Failure to obtain a permit before removing a tree can result in hefty fines and legal penalties.
for Tree Permit Assistance Contact Samsara Tree Care
If you need help with tree permits, removal, or arborist reports, we’re here to assist!
🌲 Samsara Tree Care
📞 Phone: (503) 406-8046
📧 Email: [email protected]
How to Apply for a Tree Permit (In General – Varies by City)
The tree permit application process varies by location, but it generally involves the following steps:
- Determine if a permit is required – Check local regulations to see if your tree qualifies for removal or pruning.
- Submit an application – Provide details about the tree species, location, and reason for removal or pruning.
- Arborist assessment – Some cities require a certified arborist’s report to evaluate the tree’s health and potential risks.
- Review and approval – City officials will assess environmental impact before approving or denying your request.
- Compliance with mitigation requirements – If approved, you may need to plant replacement trees or pay a mitigation fee.
Need help with your tree permit? Contact Samsara’s tree experts for assistance with your application!
Pacific Northwest Tree Permit Regulations
Tree permit regulations vary across cities in the Portland metro area and Southwest Washington. Below are the key rules for Portland, Vancouver, and surrounding cities:
Jump to a City's Tree Permit Information
- Beaverton, OR
- Camas, WA
- Gresham, OR
- Happy Valley, OR
- Hillsboro, OR
- Lake Oswego, OR
- Milwaukie, OR
- Oregon City, OR
- Portland, OR
- Tigard, OR
- Vancouver, OR
- Washougal, WA
- West Linn, OR
Tree Permits Portland, OR
🌲 Portland’s Regulations for Tree Removal & Pruning
- Tree Removal on Private Property
- A permit is required for removing any tree 12 inches or larger in diameter (DBH) in most residential and commercial areas.
- Trees within environmental zones, heritage tree programs, or regulated overlays require additional review.
- No permit is required for removing trees under 12 inches DBH, unless they are part of a tree preservation plan.
- Street Trees & Public Right-of-Way
- A permit is required for removing, planting, or pruning any street tree (trees located in the public right-of-way).
- Street tree removal is only approved if the tree is dead, hazardous, or causing significant damage to infrastructure.
- A permit is required for pruning more than 15% of a tree’s canopy.
- Tree Removal for Development & Construction
- A permit is required for tree removal related to new construction, renovations, or major site work when the project cost exceeds $25,000.
- Development projects must comply with tree preservation and density requirements under Portland’s Title 11 Tree Code.
- Mitigation (tree replanting or payment into the Tree Planting & Preservation Fund) may be required.
- Tree Permit Process
- Submit a Tree Removal Permit Application through Portland’s Development Hub (DevHub).
- A site inspection may be required, especially for heritage trees, protected zones, or large removals.
- Emergency tree removals require post-removal documentation to avoid penalties.
- Tree Protection & Enforcement
- Unpermitted tree removals may result in fines and mandatory replanting requirements.
- Developments must include a tree plan that protects existing trees and ensures compliance with city codes.
- Portland Tree Links:
Tree Permits Vancouver, WA
🌲 Vancouver’s Moderate Tree Protection Rules
- Street Trees (Public Right-of-Way Trees)
- A permit is required to remove, plant, or prune any street tree (trees within the public right-of-way).
- A Street Tree Worker License is required for major pruning of street trees.
- Failure to obtain a permit can result in fines
- Street Tree Work Permit Application
- Private Property Trees.
- A permit is required for tree removal if:
- The tree is designated as a Heritage Tree.
- The tree is in a Critical Area or buffer zone (e.g., wetlands, steep slopes, conservation zones).
- The property is larger than an acre.
- The lot can be subdivided under current zoning laws.
- The lot was developed after 1996, and trees were required for mitigation or preservation.
- Routine pruning of private trees does not require a permit.
- Private Tree Removal and Replacement Permit
- A permit is required for tree removal if:
- Tree Removal for Development
- A permit is required for tree removal in development zones, including:
- Commercial, industrial, and multi-family properties.
- Lots in active development (permit type depends on lot size, zoning, and mitigation requirements).
- Any property in or near a Critical Area (e.g., wetland, stream buffer, or priority habitat).
- Tree Requirements for Development
- A permit is required for tree removal in development zones, including:
- Vancouver WA Tree Permit Links:
Beaverton, OR Tree Permit Information
🌲 Beaverton, OR Tree Permit Information
- Tree Removal & Pruning Regulations
- A permit is required for removing any tree over 10 inches DBH on private property.
- Significant trees and trees in environmentally sensitive areas require replanting or mitigation fees.
- Street trees (trees in the public right-of-way) require a permit for removal, pruning, or planting.
- Topping trees is prohibited as it weakens tree structure and causes long-term damage.
- Tree Maintenance & Preservation
- Homeowners are responsible for maintaining street trees adjacent to their property.
- Newly planted trees should be watered weekly for the first two years.
- The City encourages preservation of existing trees to maintain Beaverton’s urban canopy.
- Key Official Beaverton Tree Links:
Gresham, OR Tree Permit Information
🌲 Gresham, OR Tree Permit Information
- Tree Removal & Pruning Regulations
- A permit is required to remove trees in environmentally sensitive areas, including wetlands and riparian zones.
- A permit is required for tree removal on developed lots if it is classified as a Significant Tree.
- Dead or hazardous trees may be removed without a permit but must be documented.
- Street trees (trees in the public right-of-way) require a permit for removal, pruning, or planting.
- Tree Preservation & Development
- New developments must comply with tree preservation and mitigation requirements.
- Replacement trees may be required for removals in regulated areas.
- Key Official Gresham Tree Links:
Hillsboro, OR Tree Information
🌲 Hillsboro, OR Tree Permit Information
- Tree Maintenance & Trimming Requirements
- Property owners must maintain trees on their property, including those adjacent to public right-of-ways.
- Routine pruning of dead or dying branches can be done at any time.
- Major pruning in the public right-of-way requires a permit, which includes:
- Removing branches over 2 inches in diameter
- Removing more than 20% of the tree’s crown
- Any pruning that impacts pedestrian or vehicle traffic
- Tree Removal & Planting Permits
- A permit is required before:
- Planting, removing, or replacing a street tree.
- Major pruning within the public right-of-way.
- Replacement is required for any tree removed from the public right-of-way.
- Contractors and developers must provide liability insurance when working on street trees.
- A permit is required before:
- Clear Zone Standards
- Trees must be trimmed:
- 8 feet above sidewalks.
- 15 feet above streets or alleys.
- Property owners must remove any limbs blocking traffic signs or intersection sightlines.
- Key Official Hillsboro Tree Links:
- Trees must be trimmed:
Camas, WA Tree Permit Information
🌲 Camas, WA Tree Permit Information
- Tree Removal on Private Property
- A permit is not required to remove a tree if the property is NOT in a critical area and is under 24,000 square feet.
- A permit IS required if the tree is in a critical area (shoreline, wetlands, or conservation zone) or if the lot is large enough to be subdivided.
- To check if a property is within a critical area, contact the Camas Planning Division at 360-817-1568.
- Street Trees & Public Right-of-Way
- A permit is required to remove or replace a street tree (trees between sidewalk & street).
- Removal is only approved if the tree is diseased, dangerous, or causing physical damage. The City does not approve removal for potential future damage.
- Street tree trimming requires a General Encroachment Permit.
- Tree Permit Process
- To apply for a Tree Removal Permit:
- Fill out the permit application through the Camas Permitting Office.
- Provide photos of any sidewalk damage caused by the tree.
- Pay the $35 General Encroachment Permit Fee (tree removal permits are free).
- Replacement Trees:
- Evergreens must be at least 4 feet tall.
- Deciduous trees must have a minimum 2-inch caliper.
- Street trees must be on the City’s approved list.
- To apply for a Tree Removal Permit:
- Clear Zone Requirements
- Tree branches must be trimmed:
- 8 feet above sidewalks.
- 15 feet above streets and alleys.
- No vegetation can block traffic signs or create visibility issues at intersections.
- Tree branches must be trimmed:
- Key Official Camas Tree Links:
Washougal, WA Tree Permit Information
🌲 Washougal, WA Tree Permit Information
- Tree Removal on Private Property
- A permit is NOT required for tree removal on private property unless:
- The tree is within a protected area (e.g., steep slopes, wetlands, conservation zones, or buffer areas).
- The property is subject to a development agreement that restricts tree removal.
- Property owners are responsible for maintaining their trees and can remove them unless they fall under protected regulations.
- Hazardous trees (dead, diseased, or infested) may be removed, but documentation may be required.
- A permit is NOT required for tree removal on private property unless:
- Street Trees & Public Right-of-Way
- A permit is required for removing, planting, or significantly pruning street trees (trees located between the sidewalk and street).
- Removal is only approved if the tree is dead, hazardous, or causing significant infrastructure damage.
- Replacement is required when a street tree is removed.
- Protected Areas & Subdivisions
- Tree removal is prohibited in critical environmental zones unless exceptions apply.
- Newer subdivisions may have tree preservation agreements that restrict removals.
- Developers are encouraged to preserve existing trees during projects whenever possible.
- Tree Permit Process
- For street trees or protected area removals, contact Washougal Code Compliance.
- A site assessment may be required to determine whether removal is permitted.
- The City provides guidance on proper pruning and tree care techniques to help preserve the urban canopy.
- Tree Care & Pruning Guidelines
- Routine pruning does NOT require a permit, but:
- Tree topping is prohibited as it damages tree health.
- Property owners should consult the Washougal Street Tree Planting List before selecting replacement trees.
- The city encourages responsible tree care to maintain its urban tree canopy.
- Routine pruning does NOT require a permit, but:
- Key Official Washougal Tree Links:
Oregon City, OR Tree Permit Information
🌲 Oregon City, OR Tree Permit Information
- Tree Removal on Private Property
- A permit is required for tree removal on non-residential property.
- A permit is required if the tree is located in a:
- Natural Resource Overlay District (protected vegetated buffers).
- Geological Hazard Overlay District (steep slopes).
- Landscaping plan area or legally protected zone (Heritage Tree, landscape easement, or covenant).
- A permit is NOT required for tree removal on residential property unless it falls under the above conditions.
- Street Trees & Public Right-of-Way
- A permit is required to remove or replace a street tree (trees located in the public right-of-way).
- Removal is only approved if the tree is dead, diseased, hazardous, or lifting the sidewalk.
- Elective tree removal requires a 1-for-1 or more replacement, depending on the case.
- Topping of street trees is prohibited.
- Tree Permit Process
- To apply for a Street Tree Removal Permit:
- Fill out the main permit application through the Oregon City Planning Department.
- Attach an ISA Certified Arborist report for hazardous tree removal cases.
- Submit an addendum form based on removal reasons (e.g., sidewalk lifting, elective removal, or dead/diseased trees).
- Free of charge, but replanting may be required.
- To apply for a Street Tree Removal Permit:
- Tree Replacement & Alternatives
- Street trees must be replanted in the same location unless:
- The planter strip is too narrow (under 3 feet wide).
- The tree species is on the Nuisance or Prohibited Plant List.
- No feasible replanting location exists on-site.
- If replanting on-site is not possible, alternatives include:
- Planting a tree on another property in Oregon City.
- Donating a tree to public parks or city property.
- Paying a mitigation fee (last resort).
- Street trees must be replanted in the same location unless:
- Key Official Oregon City Tree Links:
West Linn, OR Tree Permit Information
🌲 West Linn, OR Tree Permit Information
- Tree Removal on Private Property
- A permit is required for removing any tree classified as a “Tree” under the West Linn Tree Ordinance.
- Trees located in environmentally sensitive areas (e.g., steep slopes, wetlands) require additional review.
- No permit is required for routine pruning or removal of small trees not covered under the ordinance.
- Street Trees & Public Right-of-Way
- A permit is required to remove or replace a street tree (trees between the sidewalk & street).
- If removing a street tree, property owners must submit a Street Tree Removal and Replacement Form.
- Replacement is required for any removed street tree, following city-approved tree species guidelines.
- Tree Permit Process
- To apply for a Tree Removal Permit:
- Complete the Tree Removal Permit Application.
- Provide photos clearly identifying the tree(s) to be removed.
- Submit a site map showing the tree location, adjacent street, and nearby structures.
- To apply for a Tree Removal Permit:
- Emergency tree removals (e.g., storm-damaged trees) must be reported immediately to West Linn’s non-emergency dispatch at 503-635-0238.
- Tree Protection & Urban Canopy Goals
- The City of West Linn aims to maintain and increase tree canopy coverage through tree preservation and replacement efforts.
- Topping trees is prohibited, as it damages long-term tree health.
- The Community Tree Ordinance governs tree preservation, removal, and replacement standards.
- Key Official West Linn Tree Links:
Lake Oswego, OR Tree Permit Information
🌲 Lake Oswego, OR Tree Permit Information
- Tree Removal on Private Property
- A permit is required to remove any tree 6 inches or greater in diameter at breast height (DBH).
- No permit is required for trees under 6 inches DBH, shrubs, or hedges.
- Dead and hazardous trees require a permit but are generally approved with appropriate documentation.
- Street Trees & Public Right-of-Way
- A permit is required to remove or replace a street tree.
- Removal is only approved if the tree is dead, hazardous, or causing unavoidable damage.
- Topping trees is prohibited as it weakens tree structure and violates city regulations.
- Tree Removal Permit Types
- Type I Permit: Up to two trees per calendar year (6–15” DBH) on single-family residential lots.
- Type II Permit: Removal for landscaping or development purposes (public comment required).
- Dead/Hazardous Tree Permit: Requires an arborist evaluation and photographs.
- Emergency Removal Permit: Can be obtained retroactively within 7 days if a tree poses an immediate risk.
- Invasive Tree Permit: Free permit for trees on the Invasive Species List.
- Tree Protection & Development Rules
- Tree protection fencing is required before construction or land clearing.
- Mitigation (replanting) is required for Type II and development-related removals.
- Replacement trees must be at least 1.5-inch caliper (deciduous) or 6 feet tall (evergreen).
- Key Official Lake Oswego Tree Links:
Milwaukie, OR Tree Permit Information
🌲 Milwaukie, OR Tree Permit Information
- Tree Removal on Private Property
- A permit is required for removing any tree over 6 inches DBH (Diameter at Breast Height).
- No permit is required for the removal of hedges, shrubs, or commercial fruit/horticultural trees.
- Tree maintenance (pruning, stump grinding) does not require a permit.
- Street Trees & Public Right-of-Way
- A permit is required to remove or prune trees on public property or the right-of-way.
- Street trees must be replaced after removal per city regulations.
- Types of Tree Removal Permits
- Type 1 Permit (No Fee):
- Removal of dead, diseased, hazardous, or invasive trees.
- Removal of one healthy tree per calendar year (under 12” DBH).
- Type 2 Permit ($50 Fee):
- Removal of healthy trees that do not meet Type 1 criteria.
- Fees increase with tree size; replanting is required.
- Type 1 Permit (No Fee):
- Tree Protection & Development Rules
- Properties in protected areas (Habitat Conservation Areas, Willamette Greenway, or Vegetated Corridors) require additional approvals.
- Unpermitted tree removals (6” DBH or larger) are illegal and subject to fines.
- Mitigation (replanting) is required for approved tree removals, or a $675 in-lieu fee per tree.
- Key Official Milwaukie Tree Links:
Happy Valley, OR Tree Permit Information
🌲 Happy Valley, OR Tree Permit Information
- Tree Removal on Private Property
- A permit is required for removing any tree with a trunk diameter greater than 6 inches at DBH (Diameter at Breast Height).
- Type A Permit ($55 fee): Required for removal of trees not in environmentally sensitive areas and that are not protected under development conditions.
- Type B Permit ($83 fee + $55 per tree): Required for removal in environmentally sensitive areas, including steep slopes, wetlands, and conservation zones.
- No permit is required for routine maintenance or removal of small trees and shrubs.
- Street Trees & Public Right-of-Way
- A Type B permit is required to remove or replace street trees (trees in the planter strip or public right-of-way).
- Removal is only approved if the tree is dead, hazardous, or causing unavoidable damage.
- Tree replacement is mandatory unless an exception is granted.
- Tree topping is prohibited as it weakens tree structure.
- Tree Permit Process
- Submit the required application online through the City of Happy Valley.
- Include a site plan showing the tree location and details of the surrounding area.
- Tree removal must be completed within 90 days of permit issuance unless an extension is granted.
- Unauthorized tree removals can result in fines and mandatory replanting.
- Tree Protection & Development Rules
- Trees in Natural Resource Overlay Zones require special permits and may be subject to stricter regulations.
- HOA or development agreements may have additional tree preservation rules beyond city regulations.
- Developments must incorporate tree preservation and replacement plans in compliance with urban forestry standards.
- Official Happy Valley, OR Tree Permit Information Links:
Tigard, OR Tree Permit Information
🌲 Tigard, OR Tree Permit Resource
- Tree Removal on Private Property
- A permit is required for tree removal if the tree is:
- A street tree (located in the public right-of-way).
- A heritage tree or a significant tree.
- A tree planted using the Urban Forestry Fund.
- A native tree within sensitive lands (steep slopes, wetlands, floodplains, stream corridors, or habitat areas).
- No permit is required for removal of trees on individual single-family lots unless they meet the criteria above.
- A permit is required for tree removal if the tree is:
- Tree Removal on Commercial, Industrial, or Multi-Family Properties
- A permit is most likely required for tree removal if the tree was originally planted as part of a land use approval or development requirement.
- Removal must be reviewed under one of the following:
- City Manager Review Process (Urban Forestry Manual Section 7).
- City Board or Committee Decision Process.
- A replacement tree is required for most removals.
- Street Trees & Public Right-of-Way
- A permit is required for the removal of any street tree (trees in the planter strip or public right-of-way).
- A replacement tree is typically required unless an exemption is granted.
- Tree species and planting locations must be pre-approved by the city.
- Tree Permit Process
- Submit a Tree Removal Permit Application online with necessary documentation.
- Typical processing time: 10 days.
- Sidewalk Damage: If a tree is lifting a sidewalk, an ISA-certified arborist must be consulted first. If removal is necessary, a Public Facility Improvement Permit is also required for sidewalk repair.
- Illegal Tree Removal Penalties
- The minimum fine for illegally removing a tree is $250 per tree.
- The maximum fine is the cost of planting and maintaining a replacement tree for three years.
- Example: As of July 1, 2015, the city cost to plant and maintain a 1.5-inch caliper tree is $550. Removing a 12-inch DBH tree illegally can result in fines up to $4,400.
- Replacement of the illegally removed tree is mandatory.
- Additional Tree Programs
- Tigard offers a Free Street Tree Program for residents to plant trees along streets.
- The Heritage and Significant Tree Program recognizes trees with historical or ecological value.
- Tigard Tree Permit and Other Tree Related Links: