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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Richardson'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 trees (24+ inches DBH of qualifying species) receive enhanced mitigation requirements. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage 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 Richardson: 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.cor.net/departments/development-services.

    View the full Richardson 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

(972) 744-4240

Other Texas permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Richardson permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment