Uncontrolled cutting or destruction of trees within the city decreases the community's livability. It is in the public interest to preserve significant trees, to control the cutting of trees, and to protect trees from damage. Trees in Gresham are regulated differently depending on their location, purpose, size, and significance.
Before removing any tree on your property, and to determine whether you need a removal permit, we recommend contacting the Planner on Duty at 503-618-2780 or POD@GreshamOregon.gov. You can call anytime you have a question about trees in your yard.
When is a permit not required?
Any tree less than eight inches in diameter measured at 4.5 feet in height may be removed without a permit. However, relocation of a healthy tree is encouraged.
Regulated trees
Trees over eight inches in diameter measured at 4.5 feet are regulated trees. Except on properties in the Hillside, Habitat Conservation Area, or Flood Plain areas or as otherwise specified in the City's tree regulations:
- Up to three regulated trees on a property 35,000 square feet or less may be removed within a 12-month period.
- Six regulated trees on a property over 35,000 square feet may be removed within a 12-month period.
You must obtain a
tree removal exemption prior to removal of any regulated trees on your property.
Obtain a
tree removal permit if your property is in the Hillside, Habitat Conservation Area, or Flood Plain areas. You can check whether any of these areas are present on your property by typing your address into
Gresham Map.
When is a permit required?
Tree locations and permits required
- Trees located around the perimeter of a site that were required through a development permit as buffer trees:
Type I tree removal.
- Regulated trees located in the flood plain, hillside constraint district, or habitat conservation area:
Type II tree removal permit and
development permit. An exception is granted for up to three regulated ornamental trees, which require a Type I tree removal permit.
- Trees located within the landscaping area of a parking lot:
Type I tree removal; additionally, these trees must be replaced at a ratio of one-to-one
- Removal of more than three or six regulated trees (as described above under regulated trees):
Type II tree removal permit
- Removal of a significant tree:
Type III hearings official decision based on criteria in Section 9.1000 of the Development Code.
- Removal of a street tree:
Type I tree removal
If you have any questions about tree removal contact the Planner on Duty at 503-618-2780 or POD@GreshamOregon.gov for additional information.
Fees and timelines
- Permit: Type I tree removal permit: no fee
Timeline: Up to one week - Permit: Type II tree removal permit: see the City fee schedule
Timeline: Up to three three months - Permit: Type III hearings procedure: no fee
Timeline: Up to four months