A Tree Removal Permit is required for tree removal on private property.

City Code

The City Code, Section 21-10, requires a permit for tree removal on private property. Tree removal means “removal, relocating or topping of the tree.” Trees affected by this code are any trees with a caliper of more than two inches, as measured at four inches above ground level.

Steps to obtain tree removal permit

1. Visit the Online Permits Portal to submit online or complete an application in person at City Hall.
2. Include Site Plan or House Location Plat and show tree(s) to be removed.
3. Include photograph(s) of tree(s).
4. Pay fee ($5 per tree, plus 10% automation fee).
5. Attach arborist’s report(s) or tree services’ evaluation. Arborist’s report may be required to determine survivability for specimen trees 9” in caliper or larger.
6. Obtain Historic Area Work Permit if tree(s) is/are located on a historically designated site or in a historic district.
7. If permit is for emergency removal or the tree is hazardous, include:

• Photos that include the “target” or structure at risk in the event of tree failure, showing distance to tree.
• At minimum, 3 photos to show canopy, trunk, and root flare in addition to photos of specific areas of defect and associated statements describing how they are a risk (i.e., significant dieback in the canopy, evidence of internal rot, etc.).

Site Plan Approved Trees

If the tree is part of an approved site plan, the tree must be replaced per staff’s instructions.

Historic Sites

If the tree is on a historically designated site or in a historic district - the Brookes, Russell and Walker District or the Chestnut/Meem Historic District - it will also require a historic area work permit issued by the Historic District Commission. If the tree is declared hazardous (see below) and its removal is an emergency, the City Manager may approve the historic area work permit. Replacement issues will be discussed between the applicant and the Historic District Commission as part of the historic area work permit review process.

Hazardous Trees

Hazardous trees are those that endanger life, health, safety or property, the determination of which must be made by a qualified person (e.g., certified arborist) for the purpose of issuing a tree permit. If such a tree is on a private property, the City Manager may order its removal if it is a danger to the public, and its removal will be done by the property owners at their expense (City Code, Section 21-12).

Replacement of Trees

The replacement of trees is highly desirable, although care must be exercised in selecting the location and species. In the case of historic areas, the Historic District Commission will assist the property owners to determine whether or not replacement is desirable and, if so, provide a list of recommended species suitable for the historic areas. This information is made available through the tree inventory and tree care program sponsored by the City for the historic districts. For other situations, qualified City staff is available to make recommendations about species and location.

Commemoration Opportunities - There are also City programs whereby donations can be made to the City’s landscape planning fund or to plant commemorative trees. Opportunities also exist to commemorate a loved one or any special occasion with a tree or bench in a City public space.

Fines

A fine of $500 may be issued for removing a tree without a permit.