Tree Removal Permits: Katy vs Missouri City
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Katy, TX and Missouri City, TX?
Katy and Missouri City have similar restriction levels.
Katy, TX
Fort Bend County
Katy makes it a misdemeanor to damage, cut, or remove vegetation on public parks, easements, rights-of-way, or other city property, with fines up to $200 per violation.
View full Katy rules →Missouri City, TX
Fort Bend County
Fort Bend County does not require general tree removal permits on private property, but subdivision developers must protect existing qualifying trees inside dedicated landscape reserves to earn planting credits.
View full Missouri City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Katy | Missouri City |
|---|---|---|
| Public Property Code | Article 1.13 | - |
| Development Code | Article 3.09 (Landscaping) | - |
| Public-Tree Fine | Up to $200 per violation | - |
| Authorization | Required from city | - |
| Per-Tree Penalty | Each tree separate offense | - |
| Authority | - | Subdivision Regulations Section 7.4 |
| Credit ratio | - | 1:1 or 1.5:1 by size |
| Diameter measured | - | 12 inches above ground |
| Drip line fence | - | 4-foot orange wind fence |
| Applies to | - | Subdivision developers only |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Katy FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my Katy property?
Trees on private residential lots are generally not permit-controlled, but trees in city easements, rights-of-way, or parks require city authorization under Article 1.13 before any cutting.
What if my tree is in the right-of-way fronting my house?
Right-of-way trees belong to the city under Article 1.13. Damaging or removing them without city authorization is a misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $200 per tree.
Missouri City FAQ
Do I need a county permit to cut down a tree on my Fort Bend County property?
No. Fort Bend County does not require tree removal permits on private residential lots in unincorporated areas. The Section 7 rules apply only to subdivision developers seeking landscape reserve credit.
What size tree qualifies for preservation credit?
Trees on the approved planting list that measure at least 3 inches in diameter at 12 inches above ground qualify, with larger ratios awarded for trees exceeding 6 inches in diameter.
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