Gresham, OR Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Gresham, OR, sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances, list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Key Facts
- Applies to
- All land within Gresham
- Regulated tree threshold
- 8 inch DBH or greater
- Exempt removals per year
- 3, or 6 on larger lots
- Governing section
- GCDC § 9.1000
Summary
Every parcel in Gresham, developed or vacant, falls under the city's Tree Protection, Removal and Replacement regulations in Development Code Section 9.1000, which requires a permit before most qualifying trees come down.
All land within the city of Gresham is subject to the Tree Protection, Removal and Replacement regulations of Section 9.1000.
Full Breakdown
Section 9.1000 of the Development Code applies to all land within city limits and covers three kinds of trees: Required trees planted under an approved plan, Regulated trees of 8 inches or greater trunk diameter, and City-designated Significant trees. Removing a Regulated tree needs either a Type I or Type II Tree Removal Permit unless an owner qualifies for a narrow exemption: filing an exemption form and staying under three removals per year on a lot under 35,000 square feet, six on a larger lot, with no overlay-district or Significant-tree conflicts. The ordinance exists, per its purpose clause, to protect the urban forest's aesthetic, drainage, and pollution-filtering value.
Violations & Fines
Violating any provision of Section 9.1000, including removing a Regulated Tree without a permit or exemption, is enforceable under GRC Article 7.50 with civil penalties up to three times the tree's value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Gresham require a permit to cut down any tree?
Can I remove a few trees without any paperwork?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Gresham
Compare Gresham to another location·View the Oregon landscaping rules overview
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Tree Removal & Heritage Trees in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Multnomah County handle tree removal & heritage trees.