Portland tree removal
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Portland?
Usually, yes for a private tree that is 12 inches or more in diameter at 4.5 feet above ground. Street trees require a permit before removal, and Heritage Trees need City review regardless of size.
Start with the tree’s location
A planting-strip tree or a tree in another public right-of-way is a street tree, even when it sits in front of your home. Portland says all street trees require a permit before removal. If a trunk crosses the right-of-way line, do not assume it is a private-yard tree; ask the City to confirm the classification.
For a tree entirely on private property, the City’s no-development checklist uses a 12-inch diameter-at-breast-height (DBH) threshold. Measure at 4.5 feet above ground using the City method before relying on the threshold.
Conditions that change the answer
A smaller private tree is not automatically clear to remove. The City’s checklist calls for additional review when a tree is in a parking lot, a mapped overlay zone or plan district, or subject to a land-use preservation requirement.
Active or planned development follows a different Bureau of Development Services path. A Heritage Tree also follows its own route: Portland requires an Urban Forestry permit and City review before work. Use the Heritage Tree map and confirm the actual tree location rather than relying on an address alone.
If there is an immediate hazard, focus first on safety. Portland has an emergency-removal process; document the condition and contact the appropriate City office instead of treating an emergency as a general permit exemption.
Next steps
- Confirm the tree is private, street/right-of-way, or uncertain.
- Measure DBH and check for Heritage, overlay, land-use, parking-lot, or development conditions.
- Use the City’s permit route or contact Urban Forestry when a boundary or restriction is not verified.
Official sources
Rules can change. These City sources were reviewed on October 5, 2026. Confirm details that depend on a boundary, map record, permit history, or emergency condition with Portland before starting work.
Get a clearer path
Check your property and one tree.
Answer only the questions that matter, then see official sources and the next action.