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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Dallas'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 8" DBH (diameter at breast height) are regulated. Protected tree: any tree 8 inches caliper or greater. Article X of Development Code governs tree preservation during development. Heritage / landmark designation: Historic trees designated by the City Council for exceptional age, size, or significance.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

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

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Prepare a tree assessment report covering tree species, condition, defects, and proposed action. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Sustainable Development and Construction - Tree Preservation. Permit fee: $200.00. Typical processing time: 4-6 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/dallas/latest/dallas_tx/0-0-0-26521.

    View the full Dallas ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Inch-for-inch caliper replacement or mitigation payment. Replacement on-site with same-species preference or payment to Reforestation Fund.

Where to file

Sustainable Development and Construction - Tree Preservation

(214) 670-4127

Other Texas permit walkthroughs

See Texas permit fees compared — Dallas's $200.00 fee in context.

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Dallas permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment