Tree Protection in Dallas, TX (2026)
6 verified tree protection rules for Dallas, Texas, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
Dallas Development Code Chapter 51A, Article X, Division 51A-10.130 requires a tree removal application before removing protected trees. The provision applies to all property in the city except lots under 2 acres with single-family or duplex uses. Protected trees include those meeting minimum caliper and species requirements. Unauthorized removal triggers mitigation requirements under Sec. 51A-10.137. The building official can issue stop-work orders for violations.
Dallas Tree Removal Permit Rules
Heavy RestrictionsHeritage & Protected Trees
Dallas protects significant trees through Article X of Development Code Chapter 51A. Protected trees include those meeting minimum caliper standards. The 2018 amendments to Article X strengthened tree conservation requirements, renaming the division to 'Urban Forest Conservation.' Tree protection during construction requires a tree protection plan under Sec. 51A-10.136 including site plans, tree protection zones, and utility routing. Conservation easements may be used for preservation credit.
Dallas Heritage & Protected Tree Rules
Heavy RestrictionsTree Replacement Requirements
Dallas Development Code Chapter 51A, Article X requires replacement of removed protected trees per a tree replacement schedule. Sec. 51A-10.135 provides alternative compliance methods when replacement trees cannot be planted on-site, including conservation easements, sustainable development incentives, and habitat preservation credits. Large or medium trees maintained in the development impact area may count toward design option requirements and site tree credit under the landscaping division.
Dallas Tree Replacement Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsTree Ordinances
Dallas has a comprehensive Tree Preservation Ordinance (Article X, Chapter 51A) that protects trees during development. Protected trees are those 6 inches in diameter or greater measured at 4.5 feet above ground. Removal requires a permit and mitigation through replacement planting or payment into the Tree Reforestation Fund. The ordinance also regulates tree damage during construction activities.
Dallas Tree Preservation Ordinance
Heavy RestrictionsProtected Tree Species
Dallas Development Code Chapter 51A Article X (Tree Preservation) protects all trees eight inches or larger DBH on non-single-family lots and assigns species-specific replacement-tree multipliers, with higher multipliers for native oaks, pecans, and bald cypress.
Dallas Article X Protects Trees Eight Inches DBH and Larger
Heavy RestrictionsParkway Planting
Dallas Park and Recreation Department under City Code Chapter 32A and Chapter 43 manages parkway tree planting in the strip between curb and sidewalk. Residents must obtain a no-fee Park Board permit and follow approved species and clearance standards.
Dallas Parkway Tree Planting Requires Park Board Permit
Some RestrictionsLooking for Dallas County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Dallas city rules.
Tree Protection in Dallas County →