Most tree removal requires a permit, but the rules depend on where you live and what kind of tree it is

Whether you need a permit to remove a tree depends on your city or county, the size of the tree, and sometimes the species. Most cities require a permit for trees above a certain diameter—often 6 inches or larger measured at chest height—but some have no size threshold at all. A few places let you remove trees on your own property without permission, while others require a permit even for small trees. The only way to know for certain is to contact your local code enforcement office, planning department, or public works department and tell them the tree's location and approximate size.

Removing a tree without a required permit can result in fines ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on your location. Some cities also require you to replant trees or pay into a tree fund. Even if you own the property, the tree itself may be protected by local law. Starting with a phone call to your city takes 10 minutes and saves you from costly mistakes.

Key Takeaways

  • Contact your city or county code enforcement, planning, or public works department before removing any tree—they tell you whether a permit is required for your specific tree.
  • Most jurisdictions require permits for trees larger than 6 inches in diameter, but some have different thresholds or protect all trees regardless of size.
  • Removing a tree without a required permit can result in fines of hundreds to thousands of dollars and may require you to replant or pay into a restoration fund.
  • Some trees are protected by species—native trees, heritage trees, or trees in certain zones may have extra restrictions even if smaller trees do not.
  • The permit process usually takes one to four weeks and may require a site visit or arborist report, so plan ahead if you have a important date.

How to learn about your city requires a permit

Start by calling your city or county code enforcement office, planning department, or public works department. Have ready the address of the tree, its approximate height, and its diameter at chest height if you can measure it. Many departments have this information online under "tree ordinance," "tree removal," or "protected trees," but a phone call is faster and more reliable because staff can answer questions about your specific situation.

If you cannot reach your city directly, call your county planning department or search "[your city] tree removal permit" online. Some cities post their tree ordinance as a PDF on their website, which tells you the size threshold, protected species, and permit process. Write down the department's name, the person you spoke with, and what they told you—this protects you if there is a dispute later.

Tree size thresholds and what they mean

Most cities measure trees by diameter at breast height (DBH), which means the width of the trunk 4.5 feet above the ground. Common thresholds are 6 inches, 8 inches, or 12 inches DBH. A tree that is 6 inches in diameter is roughly the thickness of a coffee can; 12 inches is about the width of a dinner plate. If your tree is smaller than your city's threshold, you usually do not need a permit. If it is larger, you do.

Some cities have no size threshold and require permits for all tree removal on private property. Others exempt certain trees—dead trees, hazardous trees, or invasive species—from the permit requirement. A few places allow you to remove one or two trees per year without a permit but require permits for larger projects. Your code enforcement office will tell you which rule applies to you.

Protected species and heritage trees

Many cities protect certain tree species regardless of size. Native trees, oak trees, heritage trees (often marked with a plaque), and trees in riparian zones or wetlands may be protected even if they are small. Some cities also protect trees in front yards or visible from the street more strictly than trees in back yards. If your tree is a species your city lists as protected, you will need a permit even if it is below the normal size threshold.

Heritage or landmark trees—usually old, large, or historically significant trees—often require a separate approval process. Some cities will not grant a permit to remove them at all unless the tree is dead or poses a safety hazard. If you think your tree might be protected, mention it when you call your code enforcement office. They can tell you when ready whether removal is possible.

What happens during the permit process

The permit process usually takes one to four weeks. You will fill out a form with your address, the tree's location on your property, and the reason for removal. Some cities require a site visit by a code officer or arborist. Others ask for a photo or a report from a certified arborist stating that the tree is dead, diseased, or hazardous. A few cities require a tree survey showing all trees on your property so they can assess the overall canopy.

Once you submit the permit, the city reviews it and either approves it, denies it, or asks for more information. Approval usually means you can hire a contractor and remove the tree. Some cities require you to show proof that the tree was removed within a certain time frame. Keep your permit and any approval letters until the work is done.

Fines and penalties for removing a tree without a permit

Fines for unpermitted tree removal vary widely by location. Some cities impose fines of $500 to $1,000 per tree. Others charge $5,000 or more, especially if the tree was protected or large. In addition to fines, many cities require you to replant trees of a certain size or pay into a tree restoration fund. The cost to replant can be $500 to $2,000 per tree depending on the species and size.

If a neighbor reports the removal or the city discovers it during a routine inspection, you may be required to pay the fine and restore the tree canopy. Some cities also pursue civil action to recover the cost of environmental damage. The safest approach is to get the permit before any work begins, even if you think the tree is on your property and you have the right to remove it.

When you can remove a tree without a permit

A few situations usually do not require a permit. Dead trees that pose an when ready hazard can often be removed without advance permission, though you may need to notify the city afterward. Trees that are actively falling or blocking utilities may fall under emergency removal rules. Invasive species listed by your city are sometimes exempt from permit requirements.

Even in these cases, call your code enforcement office first. What counts as "dead" or "hazardous" varies by city, and removing a tree you think is dead without confirmation can still result in a fine. If the tree is truly an emergency—it is falling on your house or blocking a power line—remove it and report it to the city within a few days. Document the damage with photos so you have evidence of the emergency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I remove a tree on my own property without a permit?

Not in most places. Even though it is your property, the tree itself may be protected by local law. Most cities require a permit for trees above a certain size, and some protect all trees. Contact your code enforcement office to find out whether your specific tree requires a permit.

What if the tree is dead or diseased?

Dead or diseased trees sometimes do not require a permit, but the definition varies by city. Some require a certified arborist to confirm the tree is dead before you can remove it without a permit. Call your code enforcement office and describe the tree's condition—they will tell you whether you need a permit or a report from an arborist.

How much does a tree removal permit cost?

Permit fees vary by city and usually range from $25 to $200. Some cities charge a flat fee; others charge based on the tree's size or the scope of the project. Your code enforcement office will tell you the fee when you call or when you submit the process.

What if my city denies my permit?

If your city denies a permit, you can usually request a hearing or appeal. The city will explain why the permit was denied—often because the tree is protected or because removal would harm the canopy. You may be able to reapply with additional information, such as a report from an arborist explaining why the tree is hazardous or diseased.

Do I need a permit if the tree is in my backyard and not visible from the street?

Many cities treat backyard trees the same as front yard trees and require permits for both. Some have stricter rules for visible trees but still require permits for backyard trees above a certain size. Check your city's tree ordinance or call code enforcement to find out the rule for your property.