A tree removal permit regulates when a property owner, contractor, or developer may cut down a tree that is protected by local law. Requirements vary widely because cities use different combinations of tree size, species, location, property type, historic or environmental status, and development activity to determine whether approval is required. Street trees are usually regulated separately from trees located entirely on private property.
Private-tree rules can differ substantially. Portland generally requires a removal permit for private trees 12 inches in diameter or larger, while Sacramento protects specified native trees and larger trees based on property type and trunk diameter. San José regulates heritage trees, ordinance-size trees, street trees, and trees of any size on many multifamily, commercial, and industrial properties. Seattle instead uses a tiered tree-protection system that considers tree size, species, zoning, and whether development is proposed.
The reason for removal can affect both the approval process and the documentation required. Dead, dying, diseased, hazardous, or structurally unsafe trees may qualify for a simplified process in some jurisdictions, but an arborist report, photographs, site plan, or risk assessment may still be required. Healthy protected trees can face stricter review, particularly when removal is connected to new construction or redevelopment. Some cities also require public notice or provide an appeal process before certain trees may be removed.
Approval frequently comes with replacement or mitigation requirements. Portland requires replacement for regulated removals in many cases, San José uses replacement ratios that depend on tree size and type, and other cities may require replanting or payment into a mitigation program. Work affecting street trees commonly requires a separate permit from an urban forestry, transportation, parks, or public works agency.
Select a city-specific tree removal permit guide to confirm which trees are protected, how trunk size is measured, whether an arborist report or public notice is required, and what replacement or mitigation rules apply locally.