Arlington, TX Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)

Arlington's landscape and tree preservation requirements in the Unified Development Code protect trees on new development sites, commercial properties, multifamily properties, and public rights-of-way. Protected trees are generally defined by species and trunk diameter, with larger native species such as live oak, post oak, pecan, cedar elm, and bur oak receiving stronger protection. For these regulated sites, removal of a protected tree requires review through a tree survey and landscape plan, and mitigation is typically required through replacement plantings or payment into the city tree fund. Owner-occupied single-family residential lots are generally exempt from the protected-tree mitigation requirements and may remove trees on private property without a city permit, though the homeowner remains responsible for safe removal and debris disposal. Trees in the public right-of-way, including parkway strips and medians, may not be removed by private parties without city approval regardless of zoning. Dead, diseased, or hazardous trees may be removed at any time but should be documented with photos in case enforcement questions arise. Hiring a licensed and insured tree service is strongly recommended for large removals.