Tree Removal Permit Requirements in Houston, TX
Houston is a major city of 2,304,580 residents in Texas that follows the 2021 IRC. Houston is generally more lenient than the standard IRC when it comes to tree removal projects — more exemptions and fewer permit triggers. You're looking at roughly $50 – $400 in permit fees, plan on about About 3 weeks for approval — plus you can apply online.
When you DON'T need a permit
No permit is required to remove a healthy tree on private property. Houston has no private tree ordinance. HOA rules may still apply. Licensed tree service recommended for safety.
Source: 2021 IRC with local amendments
There is no private property tree ordinance — you may remove any tree, dead or alive, without a permit.
Source: 2021 IRC with local amendments
No private property tree permit is required regardless of size.
Source: 2021 IRC with local amendments
When you DO need a permit
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: 2021 IRC with local amendments
Tree Removal Permit Costs: Houston vs. Nearby
Houston runs higher than average for Texas. Expect $50 – $400 versus the state average of $41 – $350.
Zoning & HOA Considerations
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.
If you live in an HOA community: hOAs commonly regulate tree removal, particularly for front-yard trees and specimen trees. Even where city law permits removal, HOA approval may be required.
Check your specific project
Answer a few quick questions to get a personalized answer for your exact project.
Check Now — Free →Building Department Contact
Frequently Asked Questions
Estimated permit fees for Tree Removal projects in Houston, TX range from $50 – $400. 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 Houston 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 Houston is About 3 weeks. More complex projects may take longer if plan review is required.
If you live in an HOA community, you may need architectural review approval in addition to a building permit. HOA rules and city building codes are separate — you may need to satisfy both. Review your CC&Rs and submit to your HOA's architectural review committee before starting work.
Learn More About Tree Removal Permits
Read our complete guide covering permit requirements, costs, common exemptions, and the application process.
Read Tree Removal Guide →