Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Houston vs Pasadena
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Houston, TX and Pasadena, TX?
Houston and Pasadena have similar restriction levels.
Houston, TX
Harris County
Houston Code Chapter 33, Art. VI (Protection of Certain Trees) requires permits for removing protected trees. Tree removal/trimming permits are processed by the Urban Forestry Division with a $90 per diameter inch fine for unauthorized removal of protected trees.
View full Houston rules →Pasadena, TX
Harris County
Pasadena has a Landscape Ordinance that governs tree planting and preservation requirements for development projects. Residential property owners may remove trees on their own land but commercial development must comply with landscape buffer and tree planting requirements.
View full Pasadena rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Houston | Pasadena |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Houston Code Ch. 33, Art. VI | - |
| Protected Species | Live Oak, Pecan, Magnolia, Bald Cypress | - |
| Permit Processing | 10 business days | - |
| Fine for Unauthorized Removal | $90 per diameter inch | - |
| Contact | Urban Forestry Division (713) 867-0378 | - |
| Residential Permit | - | Generally not required |
| Commercial Dev | - | Landscape ordinance applies |
| Street Trees | - | City-managed — no unauthorized removal |
| Code | - | Pasadena Landscape Ordinance |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Houston FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Houston?
You need a permit to remove protected trees (Live Oak, Pecan, Magnolia, Bald Cypress, and others under Chapter 33, Art. VI). Contact the Urban Forestry Division at (713) 867-0378 or email treepermit@houstontx.gov.
What is the penalty for cutting down a protected tree in Houston?
Unauthorized removal of a protected tree can result in a fine of $90 per diameter inch of the trunk, plus potential daily fines of up to $500 and possible prosecution.
Pasadena FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my residential property?
Generally no. Pasadena does not require residential tree removal permits for private property trees. Street trees in public rights-of-way require city authorization.
What tree rules apply to commercial development?
Commercial and multi-family development must comply with the Pasadena Landscape Ordinance, which requires landscape buffers and minimum tree planting for new construction.
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