Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Live Oak vs San Antonio
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Live Oak, TX and San Antonio, TX?
Live Oak has fewer restrictions than San Antonio.
Live Oak, TX
Bexar County
Live Oak has no comprehensive tree preservation ordinance for single-family lots. Owners may generally remove private trees without a permit, though ROW trees and plat requirements may apply.
View full Live Oak rules →San Antonio, TX
Bexar County
San Antonio Unified Development Code Sec. 35-523 requires a Tree Preservation Permit before removing any significant tree (6 inches DBH+) or heritage tree (24 inches DBH+), with mitigation at 1:1 or 3:1 ratio per Table 523-1A.
View full San Antonio rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Live Oak | San Antonio |
|---|---|---|
| Private Tree Permit | Not required on most single-family lots | - |
| ROW Trees | Public Works approval required | - |
| Commercial/Plat Trees | Subject to approved site plan | - |
| HOA | Deed restrictions may still apply | - |
| Oak Wilt Disposal | Immediate chipping or burying | - |
| Code Section | - | UDC Sec. 35-523 |
| Significant Tree | - | 6 inches DBH or greater |
| Heritage Tree | - | 24 inches DBH or greater |
| Mitigation Heritage | - | 3:1 inch-for-inch |
| Permit Authority | - | City Arborist (DSD) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Live Oak FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in my Live Oak yard?
Generally no permit is required for trees on private single-family residential property in Live Oak. Check your HOA covenants and subdivision plat for additional requirements.
Can my HOA stop me from removing a dead tree?
HOAs may restrict removal through deed covenants. Texas Property Code 202.007 does not specifically protect tree removal rights, so HOA approval may still be needed.
San Antonio FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in San Antonio?
Yes if it is a significant (6 inches DBH+) or heritage (24 inches DBH+) tree; permit issued by the City Arborist under UDC 35-523.
What is a heritage tree?
Any tree 24 inches DBH or larger; removal requires 3:1 inch-for-inch mitigation under Table 523-1A.
How long is the permit valid?
A standalone tree removal permit is valid for 180 days from issuance under UDC 35-523.
Compare other topics
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