Rowlett, TX Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Rowlett, 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
- Apply before
- removing any protected tree
- Fee
- set by city council
- Reviewer
- planning & community development director
- Standalone permit expires
- 180 days
- Appeal
- to planning & zoning commission
Summary
Removing a protected tree in Rowlett requires an approved tree-removal and site-clearing permit under Sec. 98-72, reviewed by the planning and community development director and subject to a council-set fee under Sec. 98-73.
An application for tree removal and site clearing permit must be submitted and approved prior to the removal of any protected tree in the city unless the tree is exempt under a provision of this division. (See appendix "A" which is on file in the city secretary office for an example of a permit.)
(Code 1982, § 9-17-7.1(A); Ord. No. 7-6-99C, § 1, 7-6-1999)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 29).
Full Breakdown
Sec. 98-72 requires the application and approval to precede removal of any protected tree unless a Division 2 exemption applies. Applicants pay a fee set by city council (Sec. 98-73) and submit a location map meeting the requirements of Sec. 98-75. The director of planning and community development or a designee reviews and approves permits and replacement plans (Sec. 98-78), and may deny an application if removal isn't reasonably required or a reasonable accommodation would preserve the tree (Sec. 98-77). A permit tied to a building permit or site plan lasts as long as that approval; a standalone permit voids after 180 days (Sec. 98-76).
Violations & Fines
Removing a protected tree without the Sec. 98-72 permit triggers the Sec. 98-53 misdemeanor penalty, up to $500 per tree per day, and blocks certificate-of-occupancy issuance until fines are settled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who reviews a Rowlett tree removal permit?
How long is a Rowlett tree removal permit valid?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Rowlett
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Tree Removal & Heritage Trees in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Dallas County handle tree removal & heritage trees.