The steps in this chart will help you figure out if you need a permit to remove trees on private property when no development is proposed. Permits from PP&R Urban Forestry and/or the Bureau of Development Services may be required to remove trees on private property.
First:
Please Verify Your Tree Is on Private Property and Not a Street Tree.
What is a Street Tree?
*All Street Trees require a permit prior to removal*
Is the Private Property Tree an Immediate Hazard?
Learn about emergency tree removals on private property.
Checklist Questions:
Do I need a permit to remove trees on private property?
Use this chart to determine if you need a permit:
1) Does the property have an active development permit, or will it be developed or re-developed soon?
Please use Check a Permit Status to determine if there is active development.
* Note that checking online is a good resource, but calling Urban Forestry will have more up to date info.
| Yes | BDS (Bureau of Development Services) permit required | Call BDS at 823-7526 |
|---|---|---|
| No | Go to 2 |
2) Is the tree a Heritage Tree?
Use the Heritage Tree Database to determine if your tree is a Heritage Tree
| Yes | UF (Urban Forestry) permit required | |
|---|---|---|
| No | Go to 3 |
3) Does a land use review govern the tree’s preservation?
Determine if a land use review governs tree preservation on the property
| Yes | BDS permit required | Call BDS at 823-7526 |
|---|---|---|
| No | Go to 4 |
4) Is the tree located within one of the following Overlay Zones and/or Plan Districts?
Overlay Zones: c, g, h, i, n, p, q, r, s, v
Plan Districts:
- Cascade Station/Portland International Center Plan District
- Columbia South Shore Plan District
- Johnson Creek Basin Plan District
- Portland International Airport Plan District
- Rocky Butte Plan District
- South Auditorium Plan District
Determine if the tree is located within an Overlay Zone or Plan District
| Yes | BDS or UF permit likely required | Call 823-TREE (8733) to determine if BDS or UF permit required |
|---|---|---|
| No | Go to 5 |
5) Is the tree 12 inches in diameter at breast height (DBH) or greater?
| Yes | UF Permit required | Get a permit |
|---|---|---|
| No | Go to 6 |
6) Is the tree located in a parking lot?
| Yes | BDS permit required | Call BDS at 823-7526 |
|---|---|---|
| No | No permit required |
If you still need help determining whether you need a permit to remove trees on private property, call Urban Forestry at 503-823-TREE (8733) or email trees@portlandoregon.gov.