Salem, OR Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)

025 (large lots) unless a tree and vegetation removal permit has been issued. The permit is processed as a Type I procedure under SRC chapter 300, and the application must include a site plan showing total site area and dimensions, topography at two-foot contour intervals, existing structures, and the type, size, and location of every tree or native vegetation area to be preserved or removed. Subsection (a)(2) lists seventeen exceptions where no permit is needed, including vision-clearance maintenance, utility installation or repair, removal of a City tree under chapter 86, maintenance of pre-2000 existing riparian landscaping, hazardous-tree removal ordered by the City, emergency removal to prevent imminent danger (with notice to the Planning Administrator within one working day), and removal on 20,000-square-foot-plus lots that stays under five trees or 15 percent of trees in a calendar year and under 50 percent over five years.

Under subsection (d), the City must grant a permit where the tree is hazardous, removal is necessary for lawful repair of an existing structure without enlarging its footprint, the removal serves a water-dependent activity, or, for restoration or non-residential development, the applicant demonstrates no reasonable design alternative exists after weighing street alignment, utility placement, and topography.