Houston Tree Removal Permit & Ordinance Guide
Harris County, Texas
Protected Tree Definition
Qualified tree: any living tree 6 inches DBH or greater on private development property. Trees in the public right-of-way are regulated regardless of size.
Permit Requirements
Tree removal permit required for qualified trees during new development or redevelopment. Tree Replacement Ordinance applies during site development.
Who can apply: Property owner or authorized developer
Replacement Requirements
Based on caliper inches removed (site-specific)
Trees replaced on-site or mitigation fees paid to Houston Parks Board Tree Mitigation Bank.
Fees & Fines
Processing Time
3-6 weeks
Required Certifications
ISA Certified Arborist recommended
Municipal Code
Houston Code of Ordinances Chapter 33 Article IX (Tree Preservation)
View full ordinanceContact
Department of Planning & Development
(832) 393-6600
Other Texas cities
Compare with nearby cities
Data last verified: April 2026. This information is provided as a reference. Always verify requirements directly with Houston before submitting permits or reports.
Ready to apply? How to apply for a permit in Houston →
See Texas replacement obligations compared: How Houston's replacement ratio ranks in Texas →
Need an arborist report for Houston?
Start your free TRAQ tree risk assessment — designed for Houston's specific permit requirements.