Houston Code Chapter 33, Art. V requires minimum tree planting for new development. Lots under 5,000 sq ft must have at least one tree. Replacement requirements apply when protected trees are removed. The ordinance establishes street tree, parking lot tree, and landscape buffer standards.
Under Houston Code Chapter 33, Art. V (Trees, Shrubs and Screening Fences), the Tree and Shrub Ordinance establishes minimum planting requirements based on property size and use. Lots less than 5,000 sq ft require at least one tree (new or preserved). A preserved tree may be on the building site or in the abutting street right-of-way. New trees must be planted in the right-of-way unless the building official authorizes otherwise. The ordinance sets standards for street trees, parking lot trees, shrubs, and landscape buffers for commercial development. When a protected tree is removed with a permit, replacement planting may be required as a permit condition. The ordinance provides incentives for preservation over replacement. Waivers and variances are available when compliance would damage utilities or create unsafe conditions. The Planning Director may grant waivers upon application.
Failure to meet planting requirements can delay or prevent building permit approval. Removing protected trees without replacement may result in additional fines.
Houston, TX
Smoke alarms in Houston dwellings are governed by Tex. Health & Safety Code Chapter 766 and the Houston Fire Code, which adopts the International Fire Code (...
Houston, TX
Houston has no city ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round decorations on residential property. With no zoning and limited aesthetic c...
Houston, TX
Houston has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Inflatable size, location, lighting, and motor noise are governed by subdiv...
Houston, TX
Houston has no municipal ordinance regulating holiday light displays. With no zoning and limited aesthetic regulation, holiday lighting is governed by deed r...
Houston, TX
Houston requires building permits for built-in outdoor kitchens that include gas lines, plumbing, electrical wiring, or structural roofs. Standalone freestan...
Houston, TX
Houston has no specific ordinance prohibiting residential smokers, pellet grills, or wood-fired ovens. Smoke nuisance complaints may be addressed under Chapt...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how other cities in Harris County handle tree replacement requirements.
See how Houston's tree replacement requirements rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.