Houston's Tree Preservation Ordinance (Chapter 33, Art. VI) provides special protection for heritage and significant trees including Live Oak, Pecan, Magnolia, and Bald Cypress. Unauthorized removal carries fines of $90 per diameter inch plus daily penalties of up to $500.
Under Houston Code Chapter 33, Art. VI, certain tree species are designated as protected, with particular emphasis on heritage trees. Protected species include Live Oak, Pecan, Magnolia, and Bald Cypress, among others. The ordinance provides incentives to property owners who preserve and care for existing trees, including credits against landscaping requirements. Trees of significant size and species are subject to permit requirements before removal. Any property owner who unnecessarily destroys a protected tree faces fines of $90 per diameter inch of the trunk. The ordinance establishes minimum planting requirements based on property size: lots less than 5,000 sq ft require at least one tree (new or preserved), and preserved trees may be on the building site or in the abutting street right-of-way. The Urban Forestry Division maintains oversight and can deny removal permits for heritage trees without sufficient justification.
Unauthorized removal: $90 per diameter inch. General violations: $500 per day. Prosecution for willful violations.
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