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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Frisco'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 lots. Single-family residential parcels subject to limited protection per subdivision standards. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage tree provisions apply to trees 24+ inches DBH of qualifying native species (post oak, live oak, pecan, cedar elm, bur oak, bald cypress).

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Frisco: 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 - Planning. Typical processing time: 4-6 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.friscotexas.gov/200/Zoning-Ordinance.

    View the full Frisco ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

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

Where to file

Development Services - Planning

(972) 292-5300

Other Texas permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Frisco permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment