Do you need a tree removal permit in Fort Worth, TX?

For some trees. Fort Worth requires a permit for certain trees or certain sites, not every tree. Fort Worth's Urban Forestry Ordinance (No. 27615, April 2025) protects healthy and significant trees, mainly when land is developed or cleared. The city uses a tree removal permit for dead, dying or hazardous trees or for removing one healthy tree, and an Urban Forestry permit for larger work. Building or rebuilding a one- or two-family home is exempt only when the lot (and commonly owned lots in the platted block) is under one acre, so ask Urban Forestry before assuming a home yard needs a permit. Our confidence: medium. Short explanation, not legal advice.

Removing trees 6 inches or more in diameter at 4.5 feet is a trigger for an Urban Forestry permit. Trees over 24 inches (18 inches for post oaks and blackjack oaks) are significant trees and need an Urban Forestry permit. Removing one healthy tree is allowed only if at least 25% of the existing canopy on the site stays.

Removing, planting or pruning trees in the parkway, right-of-way, parks or other public space must be approved by the City Forester under Chapter 33. These permits are free and separate from Urban Forestry permits; email citytreepermits@fortworthtexas.gov.

Dead, dying or hazardous trees (and insect-infested or diseased trees that threaten other trees, or trees in a utility easement or right-of-way) still need a tree removal permit. The application asks for photos and a letter or other documentation from a certified arborist or other tree professional.

Send the Tree Removal Application to urbanforestry@fortworthtexas.gov, or apply for an Urban Forestry permit through the city's online permitting system (Accela). Questions: 817-392-2222.

HOA rules can be stricter; check yours. Read your HOA covenants or ask the board before work starts.

Your address, the tree species if you know it, the trunk width measured about 4.5 feet above the ground, photos of the whole tree, and whether it is near the street, a sidewalk or a power line. Ask if a permit is needed and how long it takes.

Some do and some do not. Ask before you sign, and get it in writing who applies and who pays the fee. In many places the property owner is the one responsible for following the rules.

No. It is a short, plain summary of public rules with links to the official sources. For a firm answer on your property, ask the city or a local attorney.

We last checked it on 26 October 2026 against the official sources listed on this page. City rules change, so check the official source or call the city before work starts.