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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Denton'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 development sites. Heritage and historic trees (24+ inches DBH of qualifying species) receive enhanced protection. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage trees: 24+ inches DBH of qualifying native species (post oak, live oak, pecan, cedar elm, bur oak). Historic trees individually designated by the city.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Denton: Property owner or authorized agent with ISA Certified 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 Department. Typical processing time: 4-6 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.cityofdenton.com/353/Development-Services.

    View the full Denton 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 when infeasible.

Where to file

Development Services Department

(940) 349-8541

Other Texas permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Denton permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment