Tree Trimming: Gresham vs Portland
How do tree trimming rules compare between Gresham, OR and Portland, OR?
Gresham has fewer restrictions than Portland.
Gresham, OR
Multnomah County
Gresham requires property owners to maintain trees so they do not obstruct sidewalks, streets, or sight lines. Street trees must have 8 feet of vertical clearance over sidewalks and 14 feet over streets.
View full Gresham rules →Portland, OR
Multnomah County
Portland regulates pruning under the same Tree Code (PCC Title 11) that governs removals. Pruning any street tree requires a free Urban Forestry permit under PCC 11.40.020, and pruning that removes more than 15% of the live crown of a street tree or designated Heritage Tree requires a full permit and ANSI A300 standards. Routine clearance pruning of branches encroaching from a neighbor's tree is allowed up to the property line but must not damage tree health.
View full Portland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gresham | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Sidewalk Clearance | 8 feet vertical | - |
| Street Clearance | 14 feet vertical | - |
| Owner Duty | Maintain street-side trees | - |
| Program | Urban Forestry | - |
| Code | - | PCC 11.40 (Permits) + PCC 11.35 (Topping Ban) |
| Street Tree Pruning | - | Free permit required |
| 15% Crown Threshold | - | Trigger for private-tree permit |
| Topping | - | Banned (PCC 11.35.020) |
| Encroaching Branches | - | May trim to property line only |
| Standard | - | ANSI A300 pruning required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gresham FAQ
Am I responsible for street trees in Gresham?
Yes. Property owners must maintain adjacent street trees including trimming for 8-foot sidewalk and 14-foot street clearance.
Can the city trim my trees in Gresham?
Yes. If you fail to maintain clearance, the city may trim trees and bill the property owner.
Portland FAQ
Do I need a permit to prune my own tree in Portland?
For most private trees, light pruning (under 15% of the live crown) is allowed without a permit. Heavier pruning, topping, or any work on a designated Heritage Tree requires a permit from Portland Urban Forestry under PCC 11.40.
Can I trim my neighbor's tree branches that hang over my yard?
Yes, up to the property line, under common-law rules referenced in PCC 11.40 — but only without damaging the tree's overall health. Over-cutting can trigger PCC 11.45 penalties and Oregon ORS 105.810 treble damages for tree trespass.
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