Tree Removal Permit Requirements in Philipsburg, PA

Pennsylvania adopted 2021 ICC codes via UCC update, effective January 1, 2026. Code Enforcement: Rhonda Swartz. Borough in Centre County.

Population: 2,754 Code: 2021 Verified: 2026-03-28 4 local rules

When you DON'T need a permit

Small trees under 6 inches DBH are typically exempt from permit requirements. However, species protection may still apply — oaks and other native species are protected regardless of size in cities like Los Angeles.

Source: 2018 IRC (UCC)

When you DO need a permit

Removal of a dead or dying tree typically requires a streamlined permit from the urban forestry department. Most cities have expedited approval for dead/dying/hazardous trees with arborist documentation. Expected 1-5 business day turnaround.

Estimated fee: $25 – $150

Typical timeline: 3 business days

Source: 2018 IRC (UCC)

Removing a healthy tree typically requires a permit from the urban forestry or planning department, with specific thresholds varying by city.

Estimated fee: $50 – $500

Typical timeline: About 2 weeks

Source: 2018 IRC (UCC)

Street trees (between sidewalk and street, in the public right-of-way) ALWAYS require a permit regardless of condition. Handled by Public Works, Parks, or Urban Forestry — not the building department. Even if the tree is 'in front of your house,' you don't own it if it's in the ROW. Removal requires specific approval and often has stricter mitigation requirements than private property trees.

Estimated fee: $50 – $400

Typical timeline: About 3 weeks

Source: 2018 IRC (UCC)

Tree Removal Permit Costs: Philipsburg vs. Nearby

Philipsburg comes in on the low side for Pennsylvania. You're looking at $25 – $500 here, compared to the state average of $41 – $350.

Zoning Considerations

Zoning

Many cities protect trees above a certain diameter at breast height (DBH) — commonly 6", 12", 19", or 20" — and some cities protect specific species (oak, sycamore) regardless of size. Portland, Atlanta, Austin, Seattle, and Los Angeles all have significant tree protection rules. Houston and most of Texas have none.

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Building Department Contact

NamePhilipsburg Borough Code Enforcement
Address4 N Centre St, Philipsburg, PA 16866
HoursMon-Fri 7am-3pm

Frequently Asked Questions

Estimated permit fees for Tree Removal projects in Philipsburg, PA range from $25 – $150. Fees vary based on project scope and valuation.

It depends on the specifics of your project. Some smaller Tree Removal projects may be exempt from permit requirements, while larger ones typically require a permit. Use our free lookup tool to check your specific situation.

Working without a required permit in Philipsburg can result in fines, stop-work orders, being required to remove completed work, and complications when selling your home. It's always best to check first.

Typical approval time for Tree Removal permits in Philipsburg is 3 business days. More complex projects may take longer if plan review is required.

Learn More About Tree Removal Permits

Read our complete guide covering permit requirements, costs, common exemptions, and the application process.

Read Tree Removal Guide →

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Disclaimer: This information was last verified on 2026-03-28. Building permit requirements may change. Zoning requirements (setbacks, lot coverage, height limits) are separate and vary by location. Always confirm with your local building and planning departments before starting your project. PermitMint provides general guidance, not legal advice.