Salem Tree Removal Permit & Ordinance Guide
Marion County, Oregon
Protected Tree Definition
Significant tree: 6 inches DBH or greater on development sites. Heritage trees designated separately by the city. Street trees protected regardless of size.
Heritage / Landmark Trees
Heritage Tree Program designates individual trees for exceptional size, species, age, or historical significance.
Permit Requirements
Tree removal permit required for protected trees on development sites and for street trees. Tree preservation plan required during site plan review.
Who can apply: Property owner or authorized agent with arborist report
Required Report Sections
Tree inventory with DBH, species, condition, justification, retention plan, mitigation plan
Replacement Requirements
Based on tree category and site retention requirements
On-site replacement preferred; in-lieu fee to tree fund when infeasible.
Fees & Fines
Processing Time
3-6 weeks
Required Certifications
ISA Certified Arborist
Municipal Code
Salem Revised Code Chapter 86 (Tree Preservation)
View full ordinanceContact
Community Development Department / Urban Forestry
(503) 588-6173
Nearby Cities in Marion County
Other Oregon cities
Compare with nearby cities
Data last verified: April 2026. This information is provided as a reference. Always verify requirements directly with Salem before submitting permits or reports.
Ready to apply? How to apply for a permit in Salem →
See Oregon replacement obligations compared: How Salem's replacement ratio ranks in Oregon →
See Oregon heritage criteria compared: How Salem's heritage designation ranks in Oregon →
Need an arborist report for Salem?
Start your free TRAQ tree risk assessment — designed for Salem's specific permit requirements.