Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Gresham vs Portland
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Gresham, OR and Portland, OR?
Gresham has fewer restrictions than Portland.
Gresham, OR
Multnomah County
Gresham regulates tree removal through its Development Code. Significant trees may require a permit before removal. Street trees cannot be removed without city approval.
View full Gresham rules →Portland, OR
Multnomah County
Portland has one of the strictest tree-protection ordinances in the Pacific Northwest. PCC Title 11 ('Trees') requires a permit from Portland Urban Forestry to remove any street tree (any size) and to remove most private-property trees ≥12 inches DBH (diameter at breast height). Removing a tree without a permit can trigger fines up to $1,000 per inch of DBH under PCC 11.45 plus mandatory replacement.
View full Portland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gresham | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | May be required for significant trees | - |
| Street Trees | City approval required | Permit required for ANY removal |
| Replacement | Required for permitted removals | 1:1 mandatory or fee-in-lieu |
| Exemptions | Dead, hazardous, or diseased trees | - |
| Code | - | PCC Title 11 (Trees) |
| Private Trees | - | Permit required at 12" DBH |
| Max Fine | - | $1,000 per inch DBH (PCC 11.45) |
| Permit Agency | - | Portland Urban Forestry (PP&R) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gresham FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Gresham?
Significant trees may require a permit. Street trees always require city approval through the Urban Forestry program.
Can I remove a dead tree without a permit in Gresham?
Dead, hazardous, or diseased trees may qualify for expedited removal, but you should still notify the city.
Portland FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in my Portland yard?
Yes if the tree is 12 inches DBH (about 38 inches in circumference at 4.5 ft high) or larger on a lot of 5,000 sq ft or more, under PCC 11.40.020. Smaller trees on developed lots usually don't need a permit, but ANY street tree does.
What's the fine for cutting down a Portland tree without a permit?
Under PCC 11.45, up to $1,000 per inch of trunk diameter at breast height — so a mature 30-inch tree can cost $30,000 in civil penalties, plus mandatory 1:1 replacement and 5-year monitoring.
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