Tree removal permit rules in Salem, OR — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Salem has strong tree protection under its UDC. Tree removal may require permits, especially for significant trees and trees within development areas. Oregon prioritizes tree preservation.
Salem's UDC includes tree preservation requirements reflecting Oregon's strong environmental values. Significant trees (generally those over a specified diameter) may require permits before removal. Development plans must include tree preservation plans. Heritage trees and trees in riparian corridors receive extra protection. Dead, diseased, or hazardous trees may generally be removed without permits with documentation. Replacement planting may be required when permits are granted for removal. Salem's Urban Forestry division oversees tree protection. Oregon's statewide land use planning goals support urban tree canopy preservation.
Unauthorized removal of protected trees results in fines and mandatory replacement planting. Development violations may affect project approvals.
Salem, OR
Salem Revised Code Chapter 93 prohibits operating sound-amplifying devices — including musical instruments, radios, and speakers — when plainly audible insid...
Salem, OR
Salem designates public parking spaces for electric vehicle charging. Those spaces are reserved exclusively for vehicles that are actively charging. Paying t...
Salem, OR
Salem Revised Code Chapter 102 prohibits vehicles from remaining parked on the same public street block for more than 24 consecutive hours. Overnight parking...
Salem, OR
Salem's Unified Development Code Chapter 800 restricts fence materials in residential zones. Barbed wire, electric wire, broken glass, spikes, and other bodi...
Salem, OR
Salem allows up to 12 domesticated birds (chickens, ducks, guinea fowl, quail, doves, pigeons, pheasants) per property for personal use. No permit required, ...
Salem, OR
Salem has no city ordinance setting a specific defensible-space distance (e.g., 30 or 100 feet). Tall grass, brush, and dead vegetation can be abated as a pu...
See how Salem's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.