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

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

Expected processing time: 2-6 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. Any tree 6 inches DBH or greater is regulated on most private property under Title 11. Street trees of any size require city approval. Heritage Trees designated by City Council receive enhanced protection regardless of size. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage Tree designation by City Council for exceptional size, species, age, historical association, or community value. Removal requires Council approval.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Portland: Property owner or authorized agent; ISA Certified Arborist report typically required.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Tree inventory with DBH, species, condition, risk assessment, reason for removal, replanting plan. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Bureau of Development Services / Urban Forestry. Permit fee: $96.00. Typical processing time: 2-6 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.portland.gov/code/11.

    View the full Portland ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: 1:1 to 3:1 depending on tree size and reason for removal; in-lieu fees to Tree Planting and Preservation Fund available. On-site replacement preferred; payment to Tree Planting and Preservation Fund if infeasible.

Where to file

Bureau of Development Services / Urban Forestry

(503) 823-8733

trees@portlandoregon.gov

Other Oregon permit walkthroughs

See Oregon permit fees compared — Portland's $96.00 fee in context.

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Portland permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment