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.
Please Verify Your Tree Is on Private Property and Not 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.
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?Click here and 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?Click here to 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:
Click here to 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.