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

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

  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. Historic/Heritage trees receive additional protection regardless of size. Heritage / landmark designation: Historic trees designated by the city for exceptional character, size, or association.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Permit applicants are typically the property owner or an authorized agent — confirm directly with Plano before filing.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Prepare a tree assessment report covering tree species, condition, defects, and proposed action. Reports are commonly authored by an ISA Certified Arborist — verify the credential requirement with Plano.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Planning Department - Urban Forestry. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.planotx.gov/280/Tree-Preservation.

    View the full Plano ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Caliper-inch replacement with on-site preference.

Where to file

Planning Department - Urban Forestry

(972) 941-7151

Other Texas permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Plano permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment