The City Arborist Program is responsible for issuing tree permits to remove or construct within close proximity of a protected or heritage tree for residential & commercial properties. These regulations are designed to achieve a balance of re-forestation and preservation to achieve the best long-term benefit for the community.
Where do I find the regulations for protected and heritage trees?
The requirements are contained in the Land Development Code (Chapter 25-8, Subchapter B).
The design criteria for achieving the tree and natural area preservation goals identified in the Land Development Code are contained in the Environmental Criteria Manual (Section 3, Tree and Natural Area Preservation).
What is a protected size tree and how is it measured?
View the definitions of Protected and Heritage trees.
Am I required to submit an application to remove a tree?
You may be required to submit a Tree Ordinance Review Application (TORA) if you meet certain criteria. Click here to view the criteria.
A Tree Ordinance Review Application (TORA) may be submitted, paid, and printed through our online web portal, Austin Build + Connect (ABC). You will be required to create an online account before proceeding with the application proces.
Click here to view a flow chart of the Tree Ordinance Review Application process.
Click here for a guide to dead, diseased, or hazardous tree removal applications.
Yes, click here to view options for scheduling an inspection.
Once I have applied for a TORA, how do I view the status of a permit?
Click here to view status of active tree permits.
Please e-mail us at cityarborist@austintexas.gov or call us at 512-978-4000.