Why Permits Matter in DFW
The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex has some of the strictest tree protection ordinances in Texas. Unlike rural areas where you can often clear land freely, most DFW cities regulate tree removal to preserve urban canopy, prevent erosion, and maintain property values. Ignoring these rules can result in thousands of dollars in fines and forced replanting requirements.
Real Consequences
- Dallas: Up to $2,000 fine per tree removed without permit
- Plano: Up to $1,000 per day per violation until resolved
- Any city: Stop-work orders that delay construction projects
- Required mitigation: Replace trees at 3:1 ratios (or pay into tree fund)
City-by-City Permit Requirements
Each DFW city has its own tree ordinance with different thresholds, fees, and requirements. Here's a quick reference for the major cities:
| City | Protected Size | Permit Fee | Heritage/Special |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas | 6"+ diameter | $50-$250 | 24"+ requires mitigation |
| Fort Worth | 8"+ diameter | $50-$100 | 24"+ heritage trees |
| Arlington | 6"+ diameter | $50 | 30"+ special protection |
| Plano | 8"+ diameter | $100-$200 | Significant tree ordinance |
| Irving | 6"+ diameter | $75 | Heritage tree program |
| Frisco | 4"+ diameter | $50-$150 | Premium trees protected |
Major Cities: Details
City of Dallas
Most Restrictive in DFW
What's Protected
- • Trees 6" diameter or larger at 4.5' height (DBH)
- • All trees in Article X Tree Preservation Areas
- • Heritage trees (24"+) require mitigation
Permit Process
- • Application through Building Inspection
- • Tree survey required for development
- • 2-3 week processing typical
Contact: Dallas Building Inspection - (214) 670-5313 |Website
City of Fort Worth
Balanced Approach
What's Protected
- • Trees 8" diameter or larger
- • Heritage trees 24"+ have extra protections
- • Trees in setbacks may have special rules
Permit Process
- • Application through Development Services
- • Tree Preservation Plan for development
- • 1-2 week processing for simple permits
Contact: Fort Worth Development Services - (817) 392-2222 |Website
City of Frisco
Most Protective in North DFW
What's Protected
- • Trees 4" diameter or larger (strictest threshold)
- • "Premium" trees have enhanced protections
- • All trees in development projects reviewed
Key Requirements
- • Tree survey with species identification
- • Mitigation plan if removing protected trees
- • Strict enforcement—don't skip the permit
Contact: Frisco Planning & Development - (972) 292-5302
Floodplain & Environmental Rules
Beyond tree ordinances, other regulations may apply depending on your property's location and characteristics:
Floodplain Areas
Work in FEMA-designated floodplains requires additional permits and may limit what you can do. Check flood maps before purchasing land or planning clearing.
- • Floodplain development permit required
- • May need to preserve riparian buffers
- • Elevation certificates often required
Wetlands & Waterways
Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) regulates work in wetlands and waters of the US. Federal permits may be needed even if no local permit is required.
- • Section 404 permit for wetland impacts
- • Buffer requirements near streams
- • Endangered species considerations
The Permit Process: Step by Step
Determine Requirements
Check your property's city/county jurisdiction. Review tree ordinance for protected tree size threshold. Check flood maps and environmental overlays.
Tree Survey (If Required)
For development projects, most cities require a tree survey identifying all protected trees (species, size, location, condition). Some cities accept contractor-prepared surveys; others require certified arborists.
Submit Application
Complete the city's tree removal permit application. Include site plan, tree survey (if required), reason for removal, and mitigation plan if applicable. Pay permit fee.
Wait for Approval
Processing time varies: 1-2 weeks for simple residential, 2-4 weeks for development projects. City may request additional information or revisions to mitigation plan.
Clear with Permit in Hand
Once approved, keep permit copy on-site during clearing. Follow any conditions (tree protection fencing, timing restrictions, etc.). Complete any required mitigation (replanting, tree fund payment).
Common Exemptions
Most cities have exemptions that allow tree removal without a permit in certain situations:
Typically Exempt
- ✓ Dead trees (may need arborist certification)
- ✓ Trees posing immediate safety hazard
- ✓ Diseased trees spreading to others
- ✓ Trees under protected size threshold
- ✓ Agricultural land (varies by city)
- ✓ Emergency utility work
Usually NOT Exempt
- ✗ Trees blocking views
- ✗ Trees dropping leaves/debris
- ✗ Trees interfering with landscaping plans
- ✗ Healthy trees in building footprint
- ✗ Trees you just don't want
Need Help with Permits?
Bear Claw handles permitting for our land clearing projects throughout DFW. We know the requirements, have relationships with city staff, and can often expedite the process.