Navigate the strict tree removal rules in Portland

The city of Portland has a strict set of requirements and guidelines concerning tree removal. Not all trees need permits for removal, but many do, and you must perform your due diligence before proceeding with tree removal. If you remove a tree belonging to a protected class without seeking the necessary permits, you may have to pay heavy fines, even if the tree is hazardous.

Ash Tree Enterprises has tree specialists who will examine your trees, determine if you truly need a tree removal permit, and help with every aspect of the permit application process, guiding you through every aspect of tree removal. Please contact us for a free quote if you need tree removal services in Portland, Oregon.

Do I need a permit for tree removal in Portland?

Before determining if you need a permit for tree removal in Portland, please determine if the tree falls within the city limits. If your tree falls within the city limits of Beaverton (for example), your tree removal permit process will be completely different. Each city in Oregon has the power to set its own standards for tree removal, so you must contact the relevant city officials and authorities to determine if you need a tree removal permit.

Generally speaking, you may need a permit for tree removal if the tree you want to remove falls within a protected class, a protected zone, or if it’s in a commercial or shared space. If you remove a protected tree without the relevant permits, you may have to pay heavy fines, so you must complete your due diligence in advance. Our arborists can help you determine if you need a tree removal permit in Portland.

You probably need a permit for tree removal if:

  • The tree is a significant grove/ tree
  • The tree is a historic grove/ tree
  • The tree is located in a significant natural resource zone
  • The tree is a landscape tree
  • The tree is a part of a grove of similar trees in the neighborhood
  • The tree is located in a commercial or multi-family lot

You probably don’t need a permit for tree removal if:

  • The tree is under 10” in diameter
  • The tree is a Lombardi Poplar, an invasive tree species
  • The tree is a fruiting fruit tree

Valid reasons for tree removal in Portland:

  • The tree is hazardous and unstable
  • The tree has a high risk of falling over, damaging property or people
  • The roots of the tree are damaging sidewalks, pools, and property
  • The tree is severely damaged because of storms or heavy wings
  • The tree s a source of conflict between neighbors
  • The tree is obstructing the view
  • The tree is blocking sunlight, thus negatively affecting other plants
  • The tree is pushing against other trees, stunting their growth
  • The tree has to be removed because of a court order
  • The tree is diseased, damaged, or rotted, and it can damage other trees

Contact a tree specialist in Portland, Oregon

Ash Tree Enterprises is the leading provider of tree services in Portland, Oregon, as evidenced by our unanimous 5-star ratings and reviews on Google. Our team is led by expert arborists who have the skills and expertise necessary to remove unwanted trees in accordance with the safest standards of tree removal. Furthermore, we can also help with the tree removal permit process, helping you avoid heavy fines.

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