Tree Protection in Hillsboro, OR

Hillsboro maintains 117 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with tree protection. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Hillsboro falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Parkway Planting

Planting, removing, or replacing a tree in the Hillsboro right-of-way next to your property requires a City permit first, and a removed tree must be replaced to the size shown in the City's Design and Construction Standards.

Key details: Permit needed for: Planting, removal, major pruning. Who issues permit: City Manager's office. Utility exemption: If under franchise agreement. Removed tree: Replace per City spread standard.

Planting, removing, or major-pruning a right-of-way tree without a permit, or skipping the required replacement standard, is a Code violation subject to enforcement and a fine under HMC 1.08.010(B).

Heritage & Protected Trees

Hillsboro's code doesn't use the term 'heritage tree': it protects large 'specimen' trees by species and diameter, like Douglas firs over 24 inches or oaks and maples over 12 inches, from removal during development review.

Key details: Douglas fir threshold: Specimen at 24+ inches diameter. Cedar/hemlock/fir/pine threshold: Specimen at 12+ inches diameter. Oak/maple/alder threshold: Specimen at 12+ inches diameter. Removal criteria: Hazard, disease, or no alternative. Governing code: CDC § 12.50.230.D.

Removing or damaging a specimen tree outside the narrow hazard, disease or no-alternative criteria in CDC § 12.50.230.D.1 during a development project is a Code violation, enforceable the same as any other tree-preservation breach.

Compared to other cities, Hillsboro takes a harder line on heritage & protected trees. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

The Bottom Line

Hillsboro's tree protection rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Hillsboro is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Hillsboro's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.