Phone: 503-823-PLAY (7529)
Fax: 503-823-6007
1120 SW Fifth Ave., Suite 1302, Portland, OR 97204
Tree Permits
Do I need a Tree Permit?
Within the City of Portland, removal, pruning, planting, and other tree work may be regulated depending upon whether the tree is in the public right-of-way or on a private lot as well as tree size or species, and property zoning. Contact PP&R Urban Forestry at 503-823-4489 for help in determining if a tree permit is needed or to start the permit process. Urban Forestry staff can provide assistance and information on tree permits.
Are you in the process of developing or redeveloping your property?
Tree removal, planting, and pruning during development are handled as part of the development permit. Contact the Bureau of Development Services Planning & Zoning for details on tree requirements during development at 503-823-7526.
| TREE PERMIT REQUIREMENTS | ||
| Removing & Replacing Trees | ||
| Street trees | Permit required from PP&R Urban Forestry | More information & application |
| Private trees | Permit may be required | More information |
| Pruning Trees | ||
| Street trees | Permit required from PP&R Urban Forestry | Call 503-823-4489 to request a permit. For certain types of pruning, permits can be issued automatically online. More information |
| Private trees | No permit required, however some native trees in environmental zones may have pruning restrictions | If in an environmental zone, contact the Bureau of Development Services Planning & Zoning for assistance, 503-823-7526. |
| Root Pruning | ||
| Street trees | Permit required from PP&R Urban Forestry | Call 503-823-4489 to request a permit. The sidewalk must be removed and a sidewalk permit number is required. |
| Private trees | No permit required | |
| Any Work on Heritage Trees | ||
| Heritage trees | Permit required from PP&R Urban Forestry | Call 503-823-4489 to request a permit. |
| Cabling / Bracing / Attaching items to trees / Pesticide Application | ||
| Street trees | Permit required from PP&R Urban Forestry | Call 503-823-4489 to request a permit. |
| Private trees | No permit required | |
| Planting Trees | ||
| Street trees | Permit required from PP&R Urban Forestry | Call 503-823-4489 to request a permit. More information |
| Private trees | No permit required | |
- Street trees are in the public right-of-way, typically between the curb and sidewalk.
- Private trees are in privately owned lots.
- Heritage trees are designated by City Council and are in the Heritage Tree Program.
Tree Complaints
To report a potential tree code violation during business hours, such as tree removal without a permit, contact Urban Forestry at 503-823-4489. For after hours complaints, visit the Bureau of Development Services website.