Tree Protection in Houston, TX (2026)
4 verified tree protection rules for Houston, Texas, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
Houston Code Chapter 33, Art. VI requires permits for removing protected trees. Applications are filed with the Urban Forestry Division with a processing time of 10 business days. Permits are valid for one year.
Houston Tree Removal Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsHeritage & Protected Trees
Houston's Tree Preservation Ordinance (Chapter 33, Art. VI) provides special protection for heritage and significant trees including Live Oak, Pecan, Magnolia, and Bald Cypress. Unauthorized removal carries fines of $90 per diameter inch plus daily penalties of up to $500.
Houston Heritage Tree Protection
Heavy RestrictionsTree Replacement Requirements
Houston Code Chapter 33, Art. V requires minimum tree planting for new development. Lots under 5,000 sq ft must have at least one tree. Replacement requirements apply when protected trees are removed. The ordinance establishes street tree, parking lot tree, and landscape buffer standards.
Houston Tree Replacement Requirements
Some RestrictionsTree Ordinances
Houston's tree and shrub ordinance (Chapter 33 of the Code of Ordinances) requires the preservation of protected trees during development. Trees with a diameter of 8 inches or more at breast height are considered protected. Developers must submit tree surveys and obtain permits before removing protected trees on development sites.
Houston Tree Protection Ordinances
Some RestrictionsLooking for Harris County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Houston city rules.
Tree Protection in Harris County →