Fort Worth's Urban Forestry Standards provide enhanced protection for heritage trees. Heritage trees are defined as healthy trees with a trunk diameter of 24 inches or more DBH (diameter at breast height). Heritage trees receive the highest level of protection and cannot be removed except in cases of imminent danger, disease, or when no reasonable development alternative exists. Mitigation requirements for heritage tree removal are significantly more stringent than for standard protected trees, including replacement at a higher caliper ratio.
Fort Worth may designate certain trees as heritage, landmark, or specimen trees based on criteria including trunk diameter (typically 24+ inches), species rarity, historical significance, or ecological value. Heritage trees receive enhanced protection beyond standard tree ordinances. Removal requires special council or commission approval and is rarely granted except for safety. Construction projects must protect heritage trees with root zone barriers. Damage during construction triggers fines and remediation. Residents can nominate trees for heritage status.
Unauthorized removal of heritage tree: $2,000 to $25,000. Damage during construction: $1,000 to $10,000 plus remediation costs.
Fort Worth, TX
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Fort Worth, TX
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Fort Worth, TX
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Fort Worth, TX
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Fort Worth, TX
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Fort Worth, TX
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