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

Under Article VI (Site Standards) of Leander's Composite Zoning Ordinance, "Significant Trees greater than eight (8) inches in caliper shall be preserved to the greatest extent reasonably possible." During construction, "Up to fifty (50%) percent of Significant Trees between eight (8) and eighteen (18) caliper inches may be removed during construction without mitigation." Beyond that, mitigation is required: at a 1:1 caliper-inch basis for Significant Trees between 8 and 18 caliper inches, at 2:1 for Significant Trees greater than 18 and less than 26 caliper inches, and at 3:1 for Heritage Trees plus a mitigation fee of $300.00 per caliper inch removed. "Heritage Trees shall be preserved on site unless otherwise approved for removal," and may be removed only with an approved Heritage Tree Permit. Preserved Heritage Trees can be credited toward landscape planting requirements. An exception applies where the Planning Director determines a Significant or Heritage Tree interferes with safe visibility at a sight triangle of an existing public street, in which case it may be removed without mitigation. The city publishes a Tree Removal Request Application and Checklist for property owners and developers seeking approval. Homeowners removing a small, non-protected tree on an established lot generally face fewer requirements, but should confirm whether a tree is protected before removal.