How to Plant Properly

Planting Season

The planting season in Portland extends from October 1 through April 30. Planting during this timeframe is recommended. 

Planting during the summer months (May 1 through September 30) is not recommended. Trees planted during the summer months should receive extra watering as needed to ensure tree survival and establishment.

If a non-development permit is issued outside of the planting season, planting may be deferred until the next planting season in order to promote survivability. Talk to your Tree Inspector about deferring planting until the planting season.

Tree Size Requirements

Newly planted trees must be a minimum caliper size as defined below. This is to encourage planting large caliper trees, which have more desirable established structure and are less prone to vandalism.

Tree caliper is the trunk diameter measured 6 inches from the ground; if caliper is greater than 4 inches, the caliper measurement is taken at 12 inches from the ground.

Broadleaf Tree Size Requirements:

Conifer Tree Size Requirements:

Conifer trees must be a minimum of 5 feet in height at time of planting.

Tree Species for Planting

Street tree species for planting must be selected from the Approved Street Tree Planting List that corresponds to planting site conditions. 

Trees on the nuisance list may not be planted as street trees or on private property. 

Minimum Requirements for a Replacement Tree

Replacement trees must:

• Grow on average to at least 16 feet or more
• 1.5” caliper, single stem
• Not be an invasive species (nuisance tree) on the Portland Plant List
• Not be prone to fatal pests or diseases, such as Dutch elm disease
• Technically be a "tree" not a shrub /other, thus cannot substitute for a tree*

*Common species that are not "Trees" but are asked about: arborvitae, vine maple, dwarf varieties of Japanese maples

Private Tree Planting

Please review the private property tree replacement requirements when choosing new tree for your private property. Replacement tree species must not be on the invasive species list, or vulnerable to common diseases and pests. 

Oregon Utility Notification Center

Call Before You Dig, its free! 

The Oregon utility notification locate center will mark the locations of underground utilities so the tree planting location can be determined. You can request a utility locate one of the following ways:

• Call 811 or 503-246-6699 (local) or 1-800-332-2344 (toll free)
• Submit a request via the Dig Safely Oregon website

Street Tree Planting Standards

Proper planting and establishment are key factors in maximizing long-term tree survival as well as the benefits of trees.

Tree Selection

There are guidelines and requirements for tree selection. It is crucial to carefully select trees for planting that have good form and are free from insects, disease, damage, and decay. 

Get Free Trees

Find out if you qualify for free trees through a PP&R Urban Forestry Program. 

Where to Purchase Trees

There are local tree nurseries that self-identify as selling trees to the public that meet minimum size requirements.

Tree Planting Steps

Follow our planting recommendations to increase your tree’s chances of survival and maximize its future health. 

Before you plant, check for underground utilities by calling the Oregon utility notification locate center hotline at 811 or 503-246-6699 (local) or 1-800-332-2344 (toll-free).

Tree Planting Permits

Find out if you need a permit to plant your tree. 

• Street Trees: A permit is required to plant any tree in the City right-of-way, which is typically between the curb and sidewalk. 
• Private Trees: No permit is required for planting a tree on private property.

Apply for a Tree Planting Permit Online.

Establishment Care

Learn how proper establishment care is essential to a tree’s long-term health and survival.

Street Tree Planting & Establishment Guidelines Brochure