How to apply for a tree removal permit in High Point, North Carolina

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from High Point's tree-protection ordinance. For the underlying DBH thresholds, protected-species list, and full fee schedule, see the city ordinance page.

Expected processing time: 3-6 weeks for tree preservation review as part of site plan submittal. Plan removal timing accordingly — emergency-tree provisions may differ.

  1. 1

    Determine if your tree is regulated

    Trees at or above 10" DBH (diameter at breast height) are regulated. High Point Development Ordinance landscape and tree preservation standards govern tree preservation during site plan review for commercial, multi-family, institutional, and mixed-use development. Protected trees ≥10 inches DBH identified at site plan review require preservation or mitigation. Specimen trees designated at site plan review receive enhanced protection. Heritage / landmark designation: Specimen trees designated at site plan review by the City Arborist receive enhanced protection; removal requires demonstrated hardship, hazard, or approved site plan with enhanced mitigation.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in High Point: Property owner, authorized agent, or licensed tree service; preservation plans prepared by registered landscape architect or ISA Certified Arborist.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Tree survey with species, DBH, location, condition, disposition; tree preservation plan; replacement/mitigation plan. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist; preservation plans by registered landscape architect.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to High Point Planning and Development. Typical processing time: 3-6 weeks for tree preservation review as part of site plan submittal. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.highpointnc.gov/137/Planning-Development.

    View the full High Point ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Inch-for-inch replacement for standard protected trees; enhanced ratios for specimen trees per Development Ordinance landscape and tree preservation standards. On-site replacement preferred with approved native canopy species; in-lieu payment to the tree replacement fund accepted when on-site replacement is infeasible.

Where to file

High Point Planning and Development

(336) 883-3328

Other North Carolina permit walkthroughs

See North Carolina replacement obligations compared — how High Point's replacement ratio ranks against the rest of the state.

See North Carolina heritage criteria compared — how High Point's designation rules stack against the rest of the state.

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your High Point permit?

Capture an ISA TRAQ Level 1, 2, or 3 assessment in the field and export a municipality-ready PDF that fits High Point's required report sections. Free, no account required.

Start a TRAQ assessment