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

There is no citywide permit to cut a tree on private property in Corpus Christi. Instead, UDC § 7.3.15 gives developers credit toward the landscaping trees required under § 7.3.12 when they preserve trees and palms from the Plant List within the street yard or landscape areas. To earn the credit, each preserved tree must be flagged and encircled with protective fencing extending beyond the full spread of its branches, no construction may disturb more than 50% of the critical root zone, and that zone must be left pervious. Preserving healthy existing trees can also reduce required parking by up to 5%. The Development Services Department administers these standards through the site-plan and landscaping review process.