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Documenting Heritage Trees with Multnomah County
Designating a Heritage Tree on private property has always required documented property owner consent. Since 1993, all consent forms have been signed by the property owners and saved in Portland City Archives. However, these forms were not recorded with Multnomah County as it wasn't a requirement or general practice at the time.
Starting in 2005, consent forms for new Heritage Trees have been notarized and recorded with Multnomah County. Since the County cannot accept old consent forms from Portland's City Archives, private Heritage Trees designated before 2005 need new Acknowledgment Forms signed by the owners.
Why does this matter?
County recording of owner consent ensures Heritage Trees are identified during property research requests before transfers. Generally, research on a property explores County records and a few City resources.
If there is no record at the County identifying a Heritage Tree on a property, and its associated protections, it is more likely that a Heritage Tree designation will be a surprise to new property owners. This can result in poor maintenance or even tree removal.
Urban Forestry wants to avoid future conflicts and ensure all private Heritage Trees are documented in County records.
The process is simple:
- Starting in February 2026, property owners with a Heritage Tree designated before 2005 will receive a customized form in the mail to sign and notarize.
- Signed and notarized forms should be mailed back to Urban Forestry by May 15th, 2026.
- Urban Forestry will record the new forms with Multnomah County.
- DONE!
It takes just a few minutes but creates a legacy that lasts for generations. If you're a property owner with a Heritage Tree designated before 2005, we'd love your help in preserving these living landmarks.
Contact us Phone (971) 201-9018 or email parks.heritagetrees@portlandoregon.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do certain property owners need to sign an Acknowledgment Form for their Heritage Tree?
If a Heritage Tree is not recorded with the County and the property is sold, the new property owners may be unaware of the Heritage Tree's status and associated regulations. This can lead to disputes or unauthorized removal of the tree.
A signed form will officially document acknowledgment of the Heritage Tree. Once complete, the form will be recorded with Multnomah County and attached to the property regardless of future ownership.
Will future property owners need to sign forms, too?
No. Once a Heritage Tree Acknowledgment Form has been recorded with the County, new property owners do not need to sign a form. Formal County documentation of the tree will be complete.
What happens if property owners don't sign the Acknowledgment Form?
These trees were designated by City Council with property owner consent and will remain Heritage Trees even if Acknowledgment Forms are not signed. However, without County recording, future property owners may be unaware of a tree's Heritage status and its protections. This can lead to confusion, disputes, and possible removal of the tree.
Do property owners have to pay for the notary?
No. Most notary services are free at your local bank or credit union. If needed, Urban Forestry can cover notary costs or help you arrange the service. Contact us for assistance.
What are the benefits of having a Heritage Tree?
You are the steward of something special, a Heritage Tree recognized as a living landmark in our community — honored for its exceptional size, age, historical importance, or rarity. A Heritage designation protects your tree and ensures it will continue to provide cooling shade, clean air, and irreplaceable neighborhood character for future generations. You'll also receive a Heritage Tree Stewardship Certificate and special highlight, if you are interested, in Urban Forestry's newsletter and social media.
What responsibilities do property owners have as Heritage Tree owners?
Owners ensure their Heritage Tree receives the proper care and protection it deserves while continuing to benefit the entire community. Major work on Heritage Trees requires a tree permit, which is free and comes with a health inspection by a City Tree Inspector.
Can I remove or significantly prune my Heritage Tree?
Heritage Trees have special protections that require permits for removal or major work. Learn more about private Heritage Tree care or contact us at trees@portlandoregon.gov to discuss your specific situation and learn about the process.
My property has changed hands since the tree was designated. Do I still need to participate?
Yes. If you are the current property owner of a Heritage Tree designated before 2005, you need to sign an Acknowledgment Form, even if you weren't the owner when it was originally designated.
What's the deadline?
Property owners must complete and submit their signed and notarized Acknowledgment Form by May 15, 2026.
Where do I mail my form?
PP&R Heritage Tree Program, 1120 SW 5th Ave, suite 858, Portland, OR 97204
I'm having trouble with the form — can someone help me?
Absolutely! We're here to help with any questions. Call (971) 201-9018 or email parks.heritagetree@portlandoregon.gov and we can walk you through the process or even meet with you in person if that's easier. Translation services are available: (503) 823-4000.