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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Carrollton'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. Protected tree: 6 inches DBH or greater on commercial and multifamily development. Heritage trees receive enhanced protection regardless of location. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage trees: 24+ inches DBH of qualifying native species (post oak, live oak, pecan, cedar elm, bur oak).

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Carrollton: Property owner or authorized agent with arborist report.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Tree survey with species, DBH, condition, canopy dripline, retention plan, mitigation calculation. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Development Services. Typical processing time: 4-6 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.cityofcarrollton.com/departments/departments-a-f/development-services.

    View the full Carrollton ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Caliper-inch mitigation based on removed DBH. On-site replacement preferred; payment to Tree Mitigation Fund accepted when infeasible.

Where to file

Development Services

(972) 466-3030

Other Texas permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Carrollton permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment