How to apply for a tree removal permit in Austin, Texas

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

Expected processing time: 4-8 weeks. Plan removal timing accordingly — emergency-tree provisions may differ.

  1. 1

    Determine if your tree is regulated

    Trees at or above 19" DBH (diameter at breast height) are regulated. Protected-size tree: any tree 19 inches or greater in diameter at 4.5 feet above grade. Heritage Tree: 24 inches or greater diameter for certain species (pecan, Texas ash, bald cypress, American elm, Texas madrone, bigtooth maple, all oaks, Arizona walnut, Eastern black walnut). Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage Tree: 24 inches or greater DBH of eligible species (oaks, pecan, Texas ash, bald cypress, American elm, Texas madrone, bigtooth maple, walnuts).

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Austin: Property owner or authorized agent with arborist assessment.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Tree survey with species, DBH, condition, justification, site plan, mitigation plan. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Development Services Department - City Arborist Program. Permit fee: $347.00. Typical processing time: 4-8 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://library.municode.com/tx/austin/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT25LADE_CH25-8ENREFULA.

    View the full Austin ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Inch-for-inch mitigation based on diameter removed. Mitigation required at inch-for-inch replacement or payment to Urban Forest Replenishment Fund.

Where to file

Development Services Department - City Arborist Program

(512) 974-1876

cityarborist@austintexas.gov

Other Texas permit walkthroughs

See Texas permit fees compared — Austin's $347.00 fee in context.

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Austin permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment