Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Conroe vs Willis
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Conroe, TX and Willis, TX?
Willis has fewer restrictions than Conroe.
Conroe, TX
Montgomery County
Conroe Chapter 102 (Vegetation) protects trees during development. No person may remove a protected tree (6+ inch DBH) without a permit. Each new home must preserve or plant at least three trees.
View full Conroe rules →Willis, TX
Montgomery County
Residents may remove trees on private property in unincorporated Montgomery County without a permit. The Woodlands requires RDRC approval for trees over 6 inches DBH. Conroe regulates trees only in subdivision and commercial contexts.
View full Willis rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Conroe | Willis |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Ch. 102 (Vegetation) | - |
| Protected Trees | 6+ inch DBH | - |
| New Home Requirement | 3 trees (4in + 3in + 3in caliper) | - |
| Permit Portal | Engineering Dept via OpenGov | - |
| County Authority | - | None under Ch. 232 |
| Woodlands | - | 6-in DBH RDRC approval |
| Conroe Residential | - | No permit required |
| HB 2127 Preemption | - | Limits city rules |
| Street Trees | - | TxDOT/city ROW only |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Conroe FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Conroe?
During development, yes. Protected trees (6+ inch DBH) cannot be removed without a permit under Ch. 102. Routine maintenance on existing residential lots is generally unrestricted.
How many trees must I preserve when building a new home in Conroe?
At least three trees per new one- or two-family dwelling must be preserved or planted, with minimum calipers of 4 inches, 3 inches, and 3 inches under Chapter 102.
Where do I apply for a Conroe tree removal permit?
As of June 2025, all clearing and tree preservation submissions go through the Engineering Department via the OpenGov portal at conroetx.portal.opengov.com.
Willis FAQ
Can I cut down a pine tree in my Conroe backyard?
Yes. Conroe does not require permits for tree removal on established single-family residential lots. Subdivision development and commercial sites have different rules.
What about The Woodlands?
You need written RDRC approval before removing any tree 6 inches DBH or larger under The Woodlands Residential Design Standards.
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