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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Salem'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 6" DBH (diameter at breast height) are regulated. Significant tree: 6 inches DBH or greater on development sites. Heritage trees designated separately by the city. Street trees protected regardless of size. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage Tree Program designates individual trees for exceptional size, species, age, or historical significance.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

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

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Community Development Department / Urban Forestry. Typical processing time: 3-6 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.cityofsalem.net/government/departments/community-development.

    View the full Salem ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Based on tree category and site retention requirements. On-site replacement preferred; in-lieu fee to tree fund when infeasible.

Where to file

Community Development Department / Urban Forestry

(503) 588-6173

Other Oregon permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Salem permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment