Do you need a permit to remove a tree in Portland, OR?
Oregon · Last checked November 2026
Portland requires a permit to remove a tree on private property that is 12 inches in diameter or larger, and the tree must be replaced on the property.
Key facts
- Size
- 12 inches or more, measured 4.5 feet above the ground.
- Replacement
- Required on the same property.
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How it works
Many cities require a permit to remove trees on private property once the trunk passes a set size, or for protected native species. The permit is often free or cheap, but replacement trees or per-inch fees can cost far more than the removal.
- Measure the trunk at 4.5 feet above the ground. Some cities use diameter, others circumference.
- Check whether the species or size is protected, and whether the tree is near the street.
- Apply before any cutting. Dead or hazardous trees often still need sign-off.
- Plan for replacement planting or in-lieu fees.
What it costs
Removal itself commonly runs several hundred to a few thousand dollars. City fees range from free to hundreds of dollars, and per-inch recompense or tree fund payments can add much more.
Other Portland home rules
Compare other cities
- Austin Permit needed above a size
- Brian Head Permit needed above a size
- Seattle Permit needed above a size
- Atlanta Permit needed above a size
- Henlopen Acres Permit needed above a size
- Washington Permit needed above a size
Sources
Last checked November 2026. Programs open, close and change funding every year. Confirm with the city before you hire anyone. Report a change.