From Japanese maple to Douglas fir, countless trees grow in Portland. While they add beauty to a landscape, provide wildlife habitat, and offer shade to your home, they can also be a disturbance. They can have extensive root systems and maybe intrusive when they grow taller and wider than expected. In these situations, you need tree removal Portland.
Do you need a tree removal permit Portland? Read this post and we will answer your question.
Should I Apply for a Tree Removal Permit Portland?
It depends. The application for a Portland tree removal permit may be necessary for some circumstances.
Among others, securing a permit is essential if you are removing a street tree. Technically, a street tree is “any tree that is growing in the City right-of-way, whether in improved (between the sidewalk and the curb) or unimproved (no sidewalk and/or curb) right-of-way. To determine if the tree you will remove is a street tree, measure the distance to the road. If it is within 12 feet, then you will most probably need a permit for its removal.
If it is not a street tree, this does not mean that you no longer need a permit. Even if it is on private property, there are still some restrictions. For instance, if the private property has an active development permit or if it is meant to be developed or redeveloped anytime soon, then a removal permit is needed.
Another instance that warrants a tree removal permit is when it is a heritage tree. The City Council identifies heritage trees based on their age, size, and historical significance. It is given a plaque as recognition and also included in a list published on the Council’s website. Around Portland, there are more than 300 heritage trees, with more being added annually.
You will also need to secure a Portland tree removal permit when a tree is governed by a land use review. To check if the tree is a part of a land use review, check out this link http://www.portlandmaps.com/maps/bds/ and enter the relevant details. You will need to type the exact location where the tree stands to see if you need a permit.
A tree planted in an overlay zone or planning district also requires a permit prior to removal. Visit the website of the City of Portland to check if the tree is in such a zone. If the tree has environmental and public benefits, chances are, it is protected, and hence, you will need to secure a permit before removal.
You will also need to get a permit for tree removal in Portland if the tree in question is located in a parking lot.
How To Apply For A Tree Removal Permit Portland
The application for a tree removal permit will depend on the situation. For instance, if you are removing a tree in an area with an active development permit or in a parking lot, then you will need to course your application through the Bureau of Development Services.
Meanwhile, if the tree to be removed is a heritage tree, then you must secure a permit from the Urban Forestry.
After determining the eligibility of the tree for removal, fill out the necessary application form. For applications that are submitted through Urban Forestry, there is a non-refundable base application fee of $300 for up to three trees. Meanwhile, for each additional tree, you need to pay an additional $25. For low-income families, it is possible to apply for a fee waiver.
If the tree to be removed is an emergency hazard, however, a permit may no longer be necessary. It is a hazard if the tree suddenly cracks and uproots, making it a significant threat to those around the area. If that’s the case, then a tree inspector will be dispatched as soon as possible to assess the situation and recommend what should be done next. If it is on private property, then the tree can be pruned or removed before applying for a permit.
FAQ
Q: Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Portland?
A: Yes, you need a permit to cut a tree in Portland. The conditions are similar to removing a tree. Check with the local authorities to be sure. Better yet, consult with the providers of tree services Oregon and they will do all the work for you! From securing a permit to cutting the tree, they got you covered!
Local Tree Experts Overview
A tree removal permit Portland is needed in most situations, specifically when removing a street or heritage tree. Even if the tree is on private property, this does not mean that you can remove it. It is best to check with the local authorities to be sure if you need a permit or not.
