Irving, TX Tree Protection: Protected Tree Species (2026)

16 defines a protected tree as any species with a minimum diameter of six inches that is not classified as unprotected; for a multi-trunk tree, diameter is the largest trunk plus half the diameter of each additional trunk. The unprotected list, meant to exclude invasive and weak-wooded species from protection, names Callery Pear, Chinaberry, Mesquite, Chinese Tallow, Cottonwood, Hackberry and Sugarberry species, most Ilex species except Yaupon and Possumhaw Holly, all Palmae palms, Tree-of-heaven, and any tree on the Texas A&M invasive plant list. 8(b) forbids intentionally damaging, removing, or harming a protected tree before a permit issues, and lists prohibited harm beyond cutting: compacting soil over the root system, altering natural grade or drainage above roots, wounding or burning a tree so it invites infection or pests, applying herbicidal or other lethal chemicals, and paving over the root system with non-permeable material.

8(c) requires a free tree removal permit application to the building official before cutting, removing, or destroying any protected tree, submitted on city forms; if ten or more trees are proposed for removal, a scaled tree survey showing every tree six inches DBH or larger, adjacent easements, and site features must accompany the application. The building official may approve, approve with conditions, or disapprove. Permits expire 180 days after issuance. Exemptions cover vegetation under six inches DBH, storm emergencies waived by city council, franchised utilities removing trees that endanger service (with disposal left to the property owner on single-family lots), licensed nurseries' stock, storm-felled trees, and trees posing an immediate structural danger.