Financial Assistance for Tree Permit Application Fees

How can I qualify for financial assistance?

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. To get started:

1. Apply directly through the Water Bureau by filling out the Online Financial Assistance Application
2. Provide the following documents as proof of subject property enrollment with your tree permit application:
   1. Portland Water Bureau Bill Discount program award letter, or
   2. Recent water bill showing the discount applied
3. Submit your application for an eligible permit type as follows:
   • Paper application
     • Include proof of enrollment with the tree permit application and,
       • Mail to:
         • Urban Forestry 1900 SW 4th Ave. Suite 5000 Portland, OR 97201
   • OR
     • Online  application
       • You can also submit the above application online at DevHub
       • Skip the online payment step and email proof of enrollment to trees@portlandoregon.gov
       • Please note in your online application your intent to apply for financial assistance.
       • This will help avoid delays due to missing fee payment.

What financial assistance is available?

If you qualify, fee waivers may be available for the following application types:

• Tree removal and replanting
• Replanting waiver
• Root pruning
• Chemical treatment
• Tree pruning application (inspection required)
• Tree permit decision appeal
• Administrative review

In addition, there are some wavers and reductions available for violation corrections and enforcement actions:

• Enforcement Waivers and Reductions

What if I am a tree care provider?

Tree care providers should submit the application on behalf of the property owner/client they are working with, and include the work order estimate or bid for the work at the property and property owner proof of eligibility with the tree permit application.

I understand I must be enrolled in the Portland Water Bureau Bill Discounts program to apply for tree permit fee waivers. But I still have questions. What do I do?

We understand!  Please call the Water Bureau Customer Service at 503-823-7770 or email pwbcustomerservice@portlandoregon.gov.

For tree-related questions please call Urban Forestry at 503-823-TREE (8733), or email trees@portlandoregon.gov