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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Springfield'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 5" DBH (diameter at breast height) are regulated. Regulated tree: 5 inches DBH or greater on development sites. Tree preservation required during development review per Development Code tree felling standards.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Springfield: 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. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Development and Public Works. Typical processing time: 3-6 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.springfield-or.gov/city/development-and-public-works/.

    View the full Springfield ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

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

Where to file

Development and Public Works

(541) 726-3753

Other Oregon permit walkthroughs

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Springfield permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment