How to apply for a tree removal permit in Eugene, Oregon

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Eugene'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. Plan removal timing accordingly — emergency-tree provisions may differ.

  1. 1

    Determine if your tree is regulated

    Trees at or above 8" DBH (diameter at breast height) are regulated. Significant tree: 8 inches DBH or greater. Heritage trees receive enhanced protection. Tree preservation standards apply during land use review. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage Tree Program recognizes individual trees for exceptional size, species, age, or historical significance.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Eugene: Property owner or authorized agent with arborist report.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Tree inventory with DBH, species, condition, justification for felling, retention plan, mitigation calculation; consistent with Eugene Code Chapter 6.305 tree felling standards. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Planning and Development Department / Urban Forestry. Typical processing time: 3-6 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://eugene.municipal.codes/EC/6.305.

    View the full Eugene ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Inch-for-inch caliper replacement on site or payment to tree fund. On-site replacement preferred; in-lieu payment to Tree Planting Fund if infeasible.

Where to file

Planning and Development Department / Urban Forestry

(541) 682-4800

Other Oregon permit walkthroughs

See Oregon replacement obligations compared — how Eugene's replacement ratio ranks against the rest of the state.

See Oregon heritage criteria compared — how Eugene's designation rules stack against the rest of the state.

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Eugene permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment