Do You Need a Permit to Remove or Work on Trees in Dallas?

If you're considering tree removal, pruning, stump grinding, or cabling and bracing in Dallas, it's crucial to understand the city's permit requirements. Navigating these regulations ensures compliance and helps avoid potential fines. Here's what you need to know.

When Is a Tree Removal Permit Required in Dallas?

According to the Dallas City Code, a tree removal permit is necessary for the removal of protected trees unless specific exemptions apply. (https://dallascityhall.com/departments/sustainabledevelopment/arborist/Pages/removal.aspx).

What Is a Protected Tree in Dallas?

A tree is considered protected in Dallas if it meets the following criteria:

  • Has a trunk diameter of 8 inches or more, measured 4.5 feet from the ground.

  • Is one of the protected species, including:

    • Cedar Elm

    • American Elm

    • Bur Oak

    • Live Oak

    • Shumard Red Oak

    • Chinquapin Oak

    • Pecan

    • Eastern Red Cedar

    • Bald Cypress

    • Bois d’Arc (Osage Orange)

    • American Sycamore

    • Texas Ash

    • Bigtooth Maple

These species are considered ecologically or aesthetically significant and are protected to maintain Dallas’s urban forest.

Exemptions:

  • Residential Properties: If your lot is under two acres and contains a single-family or duplex structure, you may not need a permit, provided the tree isn't protected.

  • Non-Protected Species: Certain species, such as Chinese Tallow, Silver Maple, Siberian Elm, Arizona Ash, Black Willow, Hackberry, Chinaberry, Tree of Heaven, and Horseapple (female/fruiting), are not protected and can typically be removed without a permit.

  • Tree Size: Trees under 8 inches in diameter (unless planted as mitigation) are generally exempt.

However, if your property is vacant, over two acres, or involves the demolition of existing structures, a permit is required for the removal of protected trees.

Steps to Obtain a Tree Removal Permit

  1. Application: Complete the Building Inspection Application, ensuring the property owner's signature is included. (https://dallascityhall.com/departments/sustainabledevelopment/Pages/formsdept.aspx).

  2. Tree Survey: Provide a detailed survey indicating the caliper, species, and location of the tree(s).

  3. Mitigation Plan: Outline how you plan to compensate for the tree removal, typically through replanting or financial contributions to a reforestation fund. (https://www.treesaregood.org/treeowner/treebenefits).

  4. Fee: Pay the required fee, which is a minimum of $100 or 0.0095 times the estimated cost of tree removal.

Applications are reviewed by the city's building official. For assistance, contact your district arborist.

What About Tree Pruning, Stump Grinding, and Cabling & Bracing?

  • Tree Pruning: Generally, pruning does not require a permit unless it involves significant alteration or is conducted on protected trees.

  • Stump Grinding: This is considered routine maintenance and typically doesn't necessitate a permit.

  • Cabling & Bracing: These support systems are part of tree maintenance and usually don't require permits. However, they should be installed following ISA guidelines (https://www.treesaregood.org/treeowner/cablingbracing).

If any of these activities involve protected trees or occur in public rights-of-way, it’s advisable to consult with the city arborist.

What Happens If You Remove a Tree Without a Permit?

Removing a protected tree without the proper permit in Dallas can result in significant consequences. Property owners may be subject to fines, stop-work orders, and mandatory mitigation fees, which could require replanting trees at a ratio set by the city or paying into a reforestation fund. In some cases, this could mean planting several new trees for every one removed—an unexpected and costly penalty. Additionally, unpermitted removal can delay construction or development timelines and negatively impact your property value or reputation with local permitting authorities. It’s always best to check with a certified arborist or your local city arborist before starting any tree work

 

How Monarch Tree Service Can Help

At Monarch Tree Service, we offer comprehensive tree care services in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, including:

  • Tree Pruning: Enhancing tree health and aesthetics.
  • Tree Removal: Safely removing trees that are dead, diseased, or pose hazards.
  • Stump Grinding: Efficiently eliminating unsightly stumps.
  • Cabling & Bracing: Providing structural support to vulnerable trees.

We can help you access all of your needs during a free consultation.

 

How Monarch Tree Service Can Help

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