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

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

Expected processing time: 4-6 weeks. Plan removal timing accordingly — emergency-tree provisions may differ.

  1. 1

    Determine if your tree is regulated

    Trees at or above 6" DBH (diameter at breast height) are regulated. Significant tree: 6 inches DBH or greater on development sites. Tree preservation required during land use review. Heritage and historic trees designated separately. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage trees designated for exceptional size, species, age, or community value.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Hillsboro: 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, retention plan, mitigation calculation. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Planning Department. Typical processing time: 4-6 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.hillsboro-oregon.gov/departments/planning.

    View the full Hillsboro ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Inch-for-inch caliper mitigation or tree unit replacement. On-site replacement preferred; fee-in-lieu to tree fund when infeasible.

Where to file

Planning Department

(503) 681-6153

Other Oregon permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Hillsboro permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment