Tree Removal Permit Requirements in Keller, TX
City of Keller Building Services (a division of Community Development) issues building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits for the City of Keller, a home-rule city in Tarrant County (DFW metro, pop ~50,000). Codes in force: 2021 IRC, IBC, IPC, IMC, IFGC, 2020 NEC, 2018 IECC. Tree preservation ordinance in the Unified Development Code; larger tree removal may require a permit plus mitigation. Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and irrigation work requires state-licensed contractors (TSBPE for electricians, TDLR for most other trades). Pool and spa barriers must meet Texas Administrative Code Ch 265 and IRC R326 (4 foot barrier, self-closing self-latching gate). Owner-builder permits allowed for primary residence under Texas law. General phone (817) 743-4110. eTRAKiT online permit portal at trakitweb.cityofkeller.com/etrakit/. Mailing address: PO Box 770, Keller, TX 76244. Closed Fridays for major permit review; minor and over-the-counter permits still processed M-F 8 to 5.
By Joey, Founder · Last verified April 23, 2026 · How we research →
When you don’t need a Tree Removal permit in Keller
Removing a non-protected tree in a residential yard generally does not require a permit. However, Keller has a tree preservation ordinance in the Unified Development Code, so verify protected tree status with Keller Community Development at (817) 743-4120 before cutting.
When you need a Tree Removal permit in Keller
Removing a protected tree (as defined in the Keller Unified Development Code tree preservation ordinance) requires a tree removal permit and may require mitigation through replacement plantings or a tree fund payment. Contact Keller Community Development at (817) 743-4120.
Tree Removal Permit Costs: Keller vs. Nearby
| City | Estimated Fee |
|---|---|
| Keller | N/A |
| Houston | $50 – $400 |
| San Antonio | $25 – $500 |
| Dallas | $25 – $500 |
Fees shown are estimates based on local building code data. Actual fees may vary based on project scope and valuation. See all Keller permit costs →
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.
Estimated Project Timeline in Keller
Here's a typical timeline for a tree removal project in Keller, TX:
Timeline is based on Keller's typical about 2 weeks permit processing time. Actual timelines vary by project complexity, completeness of application, and current department workload.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Contact Keller's building department for current Tree Removal permit fee information. Fees typically 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 Keller 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 Keller is about 2 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 →