Frequently Asked Tree Questions
Q: Do I need a permit to remove a tree at my house?
A: Maybe. If your property was developed after 1985 and the tree was protected during development, removal may be restricted by your homeowner's association or the deed of your house. Check with the City Arborist, your homeowner's association and your deed to find out about the specific tree removal requirements.
If the tree is located in a sensitive lands area (steep slope, 100-year floodplain, or wetland), then a tree removal permit link is required. Check with the City Arborist to find out if your property is located in a sensitive lands area.
Q: Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my commercial or industrial property?
A: Yes. Trees on commercial or industrial properties can only be removed if deemed
dead, declining, or hazardous by a certified arborist. If the tree is not dead,
declining, or hazardous, then a minor modification permit (Table 18.310.1) is required. Check with the City Arborist regarding specific permit requirements.
Q: What is the penalty for illegally damaging or removing a tree?
A: As specified in Section 18.790.060.C, the penalty includes but is not limited to a fine of up to $500 and the appraised value of the value of the tree. The tree must also be replaced per Section 18.790.060.D.
Q: Do I need a permit to remove a tree from the planter strip or public right-of-way fronting my property?
A: Yes, trees in these areas, usually referred to as street trees, can only be removed if the City finds the reason acceptable. Check with the City Arborist regarding specific permit requirements.
Q: Do I need a permit to plant a tree in the planter strip or public right of way fronting my property?
A: Yes the City must approve the species and planting location for street trees per
Section 18.745.040.C.
Check with the City Arborist regarding specific permit requirements.
Q: Is it true that the City offers free street trees for Tigard property owners?
A: Yes, if you have room, the City Arborist can work with
you on getting you a tree.
Q: Will the City maintain or remove the street tree in front of my house?
A: No, street tree maintenance is the responsibility of the fronting property owner.
Additionally, Tigard (as with most cities) requires that street trees be maintained
per tree industry standards. In addition, tree branches need to be maintained 8
feet above sidewalks and at 13-18 feet above street depending on the street type.
The City recommends working with a licensed tree care firm with an
ISA certified arborist to maintain street trees.
Contact the City Arborist to find out more about maintenance requirements and industry pruning standards.
Q: I have a tree that is interfering with the power lines, what should I do?
A: Contact Portland General Electric at 800-544-1794 or visit them on
their web site. If Portland General Electric recommends removal, contact the City Arborist for removal requirements.
Q: I'm worried about the condition of a tree on my property. Can the City come out and inspect it?
A: No, trees on private property are the owner's responsibility.
We recommend hiring an ISA certified arborist for tree inspections.
Q: I'm worried about a tree on my neighbor's property, what can the City do?
A: We recommend first contacting your neighbor to try and work out a solution.
Follow the link to the brochure You and the Tree Next Door"
for other possible options. The City does not get involved in civil issues between
property owners. If a solution is not possible, the City also has mediation
services to resolve issues. More information is available here.
Q: I'm worried about my street tree, can the City come out and inspect it?
A: Street trees, although they may be in the public right of way, are
the adjacent property owner's responsibility. We recommend hiring ISA certified arborists for tree inspections.
Q: I plan on developing my property, what are the requirements for tree removal for development.
A: Tigard code Section 18.790 covers the tree removal requirements for development. Contact the City Arborist to find out more about tree removal requirements for development.
Q: How can I get involved in volunteering to improve our urban forest?
A: Contact Carla Staedter, Public Works Volunteer Coordinator at 503-718-2788 or carla@tigard-or.gov.
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