Tree Permit Definitions
Street Trees are trees planted in the public area between the street and up to and often past the sidewalk (also known as: the right-of-way). Street Trees are the responsibility of the most adjacent property owner. Street trees and private trees have different regulations, which can determine if you need a permit. How can I tell if I have Street Trees?
Private Trees are located entirely on private property. Spacing between the right-of-way (ROW) and private property line varies. Do I need a Permit? has directions for identifying property lines on a city map by searching an address. Any tree straddling the line is a street tree.
Heritage Trees have been formally recognized by City Council for their unique size, age, historical or horticultural significance, and generally have a sign on the trunk.
Development Hub PDX is an online application system, where you can create an account, apply for a permit, and make a payment.
This page is intended for Non-Development tree permit applications.
See Tree Plan Requirements for Development Permits or Trees and Development for more information on development permitting and Urban Forestry Requirements.
Permit Applications
A separate application is required for each site and each activity.
Removal and Replanting
Instructions for Tree Removal and Replant Permit Application(1.39 Mb)
Tree Removal and replanting permit application instructions.
Tree Removal & Replanting Permit Application(381.13 Kb)
Tree Removal & Replanting Permit for Street Trees or private property trees when no development is occurring on-site.
Street Trees No permit is required for removing sucker shoots or self-sown trees that are less than 1/2 inch in diameter. | Permit Required | |
|---|---|---|
| Private Trees |
Plant Trees
Street Trees A permit is required to plant any tree in the City right-of-way, which is typically between the curb and sidewalk. | Permit Required | |
|---|---|---|
| Private Trees | No Permit Required | Call Before You Dig ( Free Utility Location Service) |
Prune Trees
Street Trees A permit is required except for pruning branches less than 1/2 inch in diameter at attachment. | Permit Required | |
|---|---|---|
Private Trees A permit is required to prune private property Native trees in c, p, or v overlay zones with some exceptions. | Permit Required | |
| All Other Private Trees | No Permit Required |
Root Prune Trees
Street Trees A permit is required except for pruning roots less than 1/4 inch in diameter at attachment. | Permit Required | |
|---|---|---|
| Private Trees | No Permit Required |
Heritage Trees - All Tree Work
Heritage Trees, All A permit from Urban Forestry is required before pruning, inoculating, or doing any other tree work on a Heritage Tree, whether the tree is in the City right-of-way or on private property. | Permit Required |
|---|
Tree Attachments
Street Trees A permit is required for attaching objects, including cables and bracing, to Street Trees | Permit Required | |
|---|---|---|
| Private Trees | No permit required |
Ornamental Lights for Street Trees
Street Trees A permit is required to install ornamental lights. | Permit Required | |
|---|---|---|
| Private Trees | No Permit Required |
Chemical Treatment
Street Trees A permit is required for chemical treatment. | Permit Required | |
|---|---|---|
Private Trees | No Permit Required |
Other Tree Work
Street Trees A permit is required for any activity that may harm a street tree. | Permit Required | Apply for a Permit |
|---|---|---|
Private Trees *A permit is required for any activity that may harm a Heritage tree. | No Permit Required* |
Financial Assistance for Tree Permit Application Fees
Visit this page for information on qualifying for financial Assistance for Tree Permit Application Fees. You will qualify if you are able to provide proof of enrollment in the Portland Water Bureau Bill Discount Program. Also, you must own and live at the property for which you apply.
Programmatic Permits
Blanket permits for public utilities and government agencies involved in routine tree maintenance.