City Arborist
The City Arborist Program administers the City of Austin's Tree Ordinance and issues permits to remove or impact regulated trees. On private property, the City regulates three classifications of trees: 8- to 18-inch diameter, Protected Trees, and Heritage Trees. Tree preservation requirements are detailed in Section 3 of the Environmental Criteria Manual.
Levels of Tree Ordinance Protection
| 8" and larger
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| 19" and larger are Protected Trees
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| 24" and larger may be Heritage Trees
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| 30" and larger Heritage Trees
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Helpful Links
- Trees on Residential Property: Learn about regulated trees and the review process for trees on residential properties.
- Trees on Commercial and Multifamily Property: Learn about regulated trees and the tree review process on multifamily properties and projects that require a Site Plan.
- Dead, Diseased, and Imminent Hazard Trees: Apply for a permit to remove a dead, diseased tree, or an imminent danger to people or property.
- Report a Tree Violation: What to do if you suspect unpermitted activity impacts regulated trees near you.
- Tree Information Center: Directory with contact information and directions on where to go for specific questions and concerns.
- Tree Terms Glossary: We define some of the commonly used, though not widely understood, terms in tree preservation and permitting.
Tree & Tree Preservation FAQs
- What is a Protected tree?
A Protected tree has a diameter of 19 inches or more, at a point measured 4.5 feet above the ground. Within the City of Austin, a permit is required to remove a Protected tree, except as otherwise provided in Section 25-8-621 of the City Code. Read the complete Protected Tree Regulations.
- What is a Heritage tree?
A heritage tree has a diameter of 24 inches or more, at a point measured 4.5 feet above the ground, and is one of the following species:
- Ash, Texas
- Cypress, Bald
- Elm, American
- Elm, Cedar
- Madrone, Texas
- Maple, Bigtooth
- All Oaks
- Pecan
- Walnut, Arizona
- Walnut, Eastern Black
Removal of a heritage tree is prohibited, except as provided under Section 25-8-641 of the City Code. Read the complete Heritage Tree Regulations.
- How do I measure a tree?
Visit the Trees on Residential Property or Trees on Commercial and Multifamily Property webpages to learn about how to measure a tree.
- My neighbor’s tree limbs are growing over my property line. Can I prune them?
Legally, this is a civil matter between the property owners. Typically, landowners may remove vegetation that crosses their property line, or the air space directly above it. However, we strongly encourage neighbors to discuss these issues and agree on a plan before any action is taken. We also encourage using ideal pruning techniques. NOTE: If the tree is regulated (19 inches or more in diameter), no more than 25% of the canopy may be removed without a permit.
- Who can help me? (Tree contacts across the City)
Stewarding our community’s tree resources is a team effort, and many departments across the City regulate and provide services related to trees. Visit our Who Can Help Me? page to find the right contact to address your question or concern.
- How do I apply for a tree permit?
When the development of a residential property contains a regulated tree, the tree review will occur simultaneously with the building plan review. The tree permit will accompany the residential building permit.
When a regulated tree is not development-related but impacted by utility issues, disease or other conditions, a Tree Ordinance Review Application (TORA) is required.
Learn more about the permitting process for Trees on Residential Property.
Learn more about the permitting process for Trees on Commercial and Multifamily Property.
- How do I schedule an appointment with the tree division?
PDC Appointments
Virtual and in-person appointments are available for customers to discuss general tree and application questions. Appointments are 15-20 minutes long. Staff may take a cursory look at conceptual development plans, but no documentation or field assessment will be provided. These appointments are not for plans currently in review. Visit the PDC Appointments webapge to schedule a virtual or in person appointment.
Pre-plan Submittal Consultations
Visit the Trees on Residential Property or Trees on Commercial and Multifamily Property webpages to learn more about Pre-plan Submittal Consultations.
- Can I get advice on developing a property I want to purchase?
Staff cannot comment or offer feedback on possible or pending real estate transactions.
- What jurisdictions are subject to the Tree Preservation Ordinance?
The City of Austin’s Tree Preservation Ordinance applies in Austin's Full and Limited Purpose jurisdictions. The ordinance does not apply in the Extra-territorial Jurisdiction (ETJ). You can use the Property Profile tool to look up a property's zoning by address.
- What is a tree survey tag?
A tree survey tag (generally an aluminum circular or rectangular label attached to the tree trunk) assigns a specific identification number to a tree for a site plan or survey. It does not mean the tree is marked to be saved or removed.
- Will the City prune or remove my tree?
The property owner is responsible for tree removal or required maintenance unless the tree is located on public property.
- Something is wrong with my trees. Can someone come out and look at them?
City Arborist staff are responsible for administering the Land Development Code's tree preservation regulations. Staff does not perform site visits or tree assessments outside of the permit review process. We encourage you to contact a qualified private arborist to assess your tree and make recommendations. You can use the International Society of Arboriculture's Find an Arborist tool from Trees Are Good or the American Society of Consulting Arborists to find a qualified arborist.