Frequently Asked Questions

How do I report a suspected illegal tree removal?

During the hours of 8:00 am to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday call one of the arborists. If you cannot get through on any of the direct lines, call the main Building Inspection phone number at (214) 948-4480 and ask to speak to an arborist. After hours you may report a suspected illegal removal to the Action Center by dialing 311. Please follow through the next business day by calling one of the arborists for the results of your complaint.
So that we can better assist you about tree removal inquiries, when you call, please have a precise location such as the address of property in question, or the addresses of the properties on either side of the property in question.

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in my yard?

You do not need a permit to remove trees from single family/duplex uses on properties under 2 acres.

What trees are not protected?

Any tree that is less than 8” in diameter. The following list of trees are non-protected trees, and it does not matter what size they are.

Chinese Tallow
Silver Maple
Siberian Elm
Velvet Ash
Black Willow
Hackberry
Chinaberry
Tree of Heaven
Horseapple (fruiting Bois d’arc)

All other trees are protected.

Do I need a permit to remove a tree?

If the tree is 8” or greater in diameter and the property you want to remove it from is not a single family/duplex use on property under 2 acres, YES.

Can I remove or have trees removed from my parkway?

You will need a site visit first from the arborist.

What is needed on a tree survey?

Date of survey
Scale
North Arrow
The name(s) address(s) and telephone number(s) of each property owner
Person preparing the survey
Location of existing boundary lines
Dimension of the lot
Vicinity map
Location and size of existing and proposed streets, alleys, and utility easements
Street address and/or Lot and Block description
Location, diameter, and name of all trees greater than 8” or greater in diameter
Any other reasonable and pertinent information that the building official determines to be necessary for review

Do I need to plant a tree the same size as the tree I removed?

No. The replacement requirement is inch per inch. You may use 2” trees from the replacement tree list to add up to the number of inches you removed. For example, if you remove a 10” protected tree then you must replace 10” and you could do it with five 2” replacement trees. You can use trees that are bigger than 2”, as well.

Can my landscape trees count toward required mitigation?

Your landscape trees can count toward required mitigation if they are 2” and from the replacement tree list.

Does a demolition permit allow me to remove trees?

No. Protected tree removal is allowed only with a tree removal permit or as indicated and approved by the city arborist on a building permit.