Tree Protection in Buncombe County, NC (2026)

1 rule for unincorporated Buncombe County, North Carolina.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Buncombe County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply — see the city list below.

Tree Removal Permits

Buncombe County issues no standalone tree-removal permit for ordinary private lots. But clearing that disturbs one acre or more (or a quarter acre in a designated Hillside Subdivision) requires an erosion-control permit, and Steep Slope/Protected Ridge overlays protect required screening trees.

Tree Removal Permits: Only Erosion Clearing and Steep-Slope Screening

Some Restrictions

Buncombe County Erosion Control (Ch. 26, Art. V), permit thresholds

An Erosion Control permit is required for land-disturbing activities of one acre or more. Properties located in a 'Hillside Subdivision' as defined by the Buncombe County Subdivision Ordinance are required to obtain an Erosion Control permit for 1/4 acre or more of disturbance.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

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