How to get a same day private tree removal/replant permit

What is a same day private tree removal/replant permit?

Same day private tree removal/replant permits can be issued without an onsite inspection by a City Tree Inspector. Applications must be complete and submitted with verifiable photos and a site map. If photos and a site map are not provided, applications will be assigned to a Tree Inspector for review and will not be issued same day.

What are the qualifications for a same day permit?

If you can answer yes to one or all of the following questions you may qualify for a same day private tree removal permit. 

Same day permits can be issued for up to 4 healthy, private trees per calendar year per property.

1. Are the tree(s) within 10 feet of a structure or attached structure?

• What is a structure or an attached structure?  "Structures" are buildings with permitted foundations and "attached structures" are decks or breezeways attached to a building.
• Photos submitted will need to show the tree, structure and a close-up of the measurement. For example:

View full size image of A tape measure stretched between a building's foundation and the base of a tree.

View full size image of Close up of the tape measure.

2. Is the private tree's diameter less than 20” at 4.5 feet from the ground?

• Here are detailed instructions on how to measure a tree.
• Photos submitted need to show a close-up of the measurement and the position of the measuring tape on the trunk of the tree. For example:

View full size image of Two images side-by-side showing a close-up and wide shot of a tape measure around the trunk of a tree.

3. Is the species of the tree(s) either an English Holly or Tree of Heaven?

• Photos must be included in the application that clearly show defining characteristics of the species, such as the leaves, bark, fruit and overall form of the tree.
• How to identify an English Holly tree
• How to identify a Tree of Heaven

Trees eligible for a same day permit must meet all of the following conditions:

• The tree(s) are located on private property.

  • Here is information on determining whether your tree is a private tree.
  • Shared trees: if the tree(s) cross a property line they are considered a 'shared tree' and both property owners must consent to the removal by signing the permit application.
  • Trees that are close to property lines: applications for trees that are close to property lines where it is hard to determine based on the submitted photos whether or not it is a shared tree, will be assigned to a Tree Inspector, unless proof of exact tree location or neighboring property owner consent is provided.

• The tree(s) must be outside environmental overlay zones and certain planning districts.

  Find Out If Your Tree is in a Special Overlay Zone or Plan District. 

View full size image of PortlandMaps.com under Zoning & Districts the Base, Overlay, and Plan District are outlined.

• There is no active residential or commercial building permit associated with the property where the tree is located. 

  To check whether there is an open building permit:

1. Go to Portlandmaps.com
2. Type in your address and click "search" button
3. Click on the "Permits & Zoning" header and then the "Permits, Land Use & Code Enforcement" button. This will open up the list of permits associated with the property.
4. Look for any residential or commercial building permits that are open. A closed building permit will have a status of "Final".
   1.  Under "Application Numbers" column there are application numbers with application type in letters like "RS" ex. 2021-0000-000-00 RS, where RS stands for Residential.
   2. The permit status will be found under the "Status" column

• A replanting waiver is not being requested. 

  Replanting waivers are reviewed by City Tree Inspectors and are only granted when properties are planted to density per City Code. More information can be found in the instructions.

How do I request a same day private tree removal/replant permit?

If you meet the qualifications, you can either drop-off paper applications to the Development Service Center or apply online. 

• If you are applying online: after you submit your application, send an email to trees@portlandoreon.gov with your IVR# and request that this be considered for a same day permit. Tree Permitting Division staff will review and respond. 

Still have questions? 

Contact the Tree Permitting Division 

Phone: 503-823-TREE (8733)

Email: trees@portlandoregon.gov

Make an in-person appointment