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Portland and the federal government

Learn about our sanctuary city status, efforts to block federal overreach: Portland.gov/Federal

Planting Verification Inspections

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Replacing trees that are removed is a vital part of keeping Portland’s Urban Forest growing. Urban Forestry’s Canopy Assurance program inspects required tree plantings to ensure permit conditions are met.

Tree Permits

Tree removal/replant permits will have their replanting requirements confirmed. Once all permit requirements are met, the case will be closed as “Final.”

Removal/replant permits are confirmed in one of two ways:

  • Staff Inspection: Tree Permitting staff inspect tree permits after they have expired. Most tree permits expire one calendar year (365 days) after being issued. After inspection, you will receive a letter if any concerns are found regarding the replanted trees.
  • Self-Certification: Before your permit expiration date, you can self-certify private property planting by submitting a self-certification form with photos. The self-certification form is online only and can be found here: Tree Planting Self-Certification. Tree Permitting staff will review your submission. If the submission is incomplete or insufficient, Tree Permitting staff will conduct a staff inspection (see above).

Development and Building Permits

Portland Permitting and Development inspects private property tree planting requirements for development permits.

The building permit is considered to be non-compliant with Title 11 if the planting requirements have not been met by final inspection.

Public Works Permits

Tree Permitting staff inspect the street tree planting requirement as part of the PBOT Final inspection. Your punch-list issued by PBOT will include any unresolved requirements or planting concerns.

Tree Planting Requirements

Street Trees

For answers to common questions regarding replanting requirements, read the Approved Street Tree Planting Lists, and read our Street Tree List FAQs.

Proper planting and establishment are key factors in maximizing long-term tree survival as well as the benefits of trees. Be sure to use the above resources (Street Tree Planting Standards, City of Portland Approved Street Tree List Master Table, Street Tree List FAQs) to ensure proper planting and establishment.

Trees on Private Property

Minimum requirements for replacing a tree, as well as helpful lists and considerations in choosing trees that meet the replacement criteria, are available on our Private Property Tree Replacement Lists page. Review these lists and use them as guides to help you select a species to plant on your property.

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