Converse, TX Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Converse, TX, sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances, list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Key Facts
- Approval needed
- City arborist, prior written
- Protected size
- 20" DBH hardwood (specimen)
- Base fine range
- $100 to $1,000 per day
- Illegal removal penalty
- $500 per caliper inch
- Forced replacement ratio
- 5:1 caliper for violations
Summary
Converse bars removal of any special or specimen tree -- the largest, healthiest trees on a lot -- without the city arborist's prior written approval, tied into the site's tree protection plan.
(d)Removal of special or specimen trees. No special or specimen tree may be removed without the prior written approval of the city's arborist.(1)Specimen and special trees approved for removal must be replaced by species with potential for comparable size and quality.(2)Any specimen or special tree that is fatally damaged during construction, as determined by the city's arborist, or removed without the appropriate review and approval of the city's arborist, must be replaced or mitigated in accordance with appendix A. (Ord. No. 606-2025, § 1, 2-18-2025)
Full Breakdown
Converse's tree preservation article (Code of Ordinances Ch. 18, Art. VI) singles out 'special' and 'specimen' trees -- larger, healthier trees meeting the DBH and condition thresholds in Sec. 18-145(a) -- for extra protection. Before touching one, an owner or developer must get the city arborist's written sign-off; removal tied to a land development or subdivision permit also requires a tree protection plan (or notarized tree affidavit) under Sec. 18-142, plus an arborist site inspection. Skip the approval and the arborist can revoke the development permit and impose replacement or mitigation.
Violations & Fines
Municipal court offense, each day separate: $100-$1,000 fine, plus $500 per caliper inch for unauthorized removal and 5:1 caliper replacement (Sec. 18-149; Appendix A).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove a specimen tree in Converse without a permit?
What size tree counts as protected in Converse?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Converse
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Converse to another location·View the Texas landscaping rules overview
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Tree Removal & Heritage Trees in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Bexar County handle tree removal & heritage trees.