Georgetown, TX Tree Protection: Tree Removal Permits (2026)

Tree removal permitting in Georgetown is governed by the Unified Development Code (UDC) Chapter 8 (Tree Preservation, Landscaping and Fencing). Section 8.01.040 defines the two regulated categories: a Protected Tree is a tree (excluding species such as Hackberry, Chinaberry, and Ashe Juniper/cedar) with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 12 inches or larger, and a Heritage Tree is one of 13 listed species, including Live Oak, Post Oak, Shumard Oak, Bur Oak, Chinquapin Oak, Monterey Oak, Bald Cypress, American Elm, Cedar Elm, Pecan, Walnut, Texas Ash, and Southern Magnolia, that is 26 inches DBH or larger. Section 8.02.030 requires city approval, via a tree removal permit or development authorization, before removing a Protected or Heritage Tree. The same section provides key exemptions: all residential lots platted prior to February 13, 2007, plus dead trees, hazardous trees, trees within sight triangles or airport zones, and certain agricultural uses. When removal is approved, Section 8.02.050 sets mitigation, with Protected Trees mitigated on roughly a 1:1 inch basis (higher for larger trees) and Heritage Trees on a 3:1 inch basis, satisfied through replacement plantings, on-site credit trees, or fee-in-lieu. Heritage Tree removal applications are accepted online through the city's permitting portal, and the Tree Removal/Pruning checklist guides submittals. Questions go to trees@georgetowntexas.gov.