Fort Worth Tree Removal Permit Guide for Property Owners

Land Use and Zoning Texas 3 Minutes Read · published February 06, 2026 Flag of Texas

In Fort Worth, Texas, property owners must follow the city’s rules when removing trees on private property or in the public right-of-way. The city’s Urban Forestry program explains permit triggers, protected trees, and required mitigation for removals; check the department guidance for site-specific rules and contacts.Urban Forestry[1]

Always confirm tree status with the city before ordering removal.

When a tree removal permit is required

Permits are commonly required where removal affects:

  • Protected or heritage trees as defined by the municipal code.
  • Trees within the public right-of-way or street terrace.
  • Sites with approved development plans or plats where tree preservation was conditioned.

If you are unsure whether a tree is protected, request verification from Urban Forestry before work begins.

How to prepare an application

Gather the following when preparing a tree removal request:

  • A site plan showing tree locations and distances to structures.
  • Photographs of each tree and any damage or disease evidence.
  • Proof of payment for permit fees if applicable.
  • Contact details for the property owner and the contractor performing the work.
A clear site plan speeds review and reduces inspection delays.

Penalties & Enforcement

The municipal code and Urban Forestry program set enforcement policies for unlawful tree removal. Specific monetary penalties and escalation rules are referenced in the city code and department rules; see the municipal code for the controlling ordinance language and remedies.Fort Worth Municipal Code[2]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation for repeat or continuing offences: not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to remediate, replanting, stop-work orders, and civil enforcement actions are applied by the city.
  • Enforcer: Urban Forestry within the City of Fort Worth or the department identified in the municipal code; inspections and complaint intake occur through the department.
  • Appeals and review: administrative appeals routes and time limits are governed by the municipal procedures; specific appeal time limits are not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences and discretionary relief: emergency removals, permits, or variances may be recognized; see Urban Forestry guidance for criteria.

Common violations and typical outcomes:

  • Removing a protected tree without a permit — enforcement action and remediation requirements.
  • Failure to follow required mitigation or replanting — orders and possible fines.
  • Work in the right-of-way without authorization — stop-work orders and liability for restoration.

Applications & Forms

The city publishes application forms and submission instructions through Development Services and Urban Forestry; where fees, submission portals, or form numbers are required, consult the department pages for the current form and electronic submittal method.Permit Center[3]

  • Application name or form number: check the Urban Forestry or Development Services forms page (not specified on the cited page).
  • Fee schedule: not specified on the cited page; fees may vary by tree size and location.
  • Deadline/submittal: follow the online filing instructions; emergency removals have different timing rules.

How-To

  1. Identify whether the tree is in the right-of-way or classified as protected using city guidance.
  2. Collect a site plan, photos, and owner/contractor information required for the application.
  3. Complete the official tree removal application form and attach required documentation.
  4. Pay the applicable fee through the city’s permit portal, if required.
  5. Schedule or await inspection and follow any mitigation or replanting conditions imposed by the permit.
  6. If denied, file the administrative appeal within the time limit stated in the denial letter and follow the appeals procedure.
Document each step and keep copies of permits and inspection reports.

FAQ

Do I always need a permit to remove a tree on my Fort Worth property?
The need for a permit depends on whether the tree is protected, its location, and any development approvals; confirm with Urban Forestry before removal.
How long does permit review usually take?
Review times vary by workload and complexity; check the Development Services permit portal or contact Urban Forestry for current timelines.
What happens if I remove a protected tree without permission?
Unpermitted removal can result in enforcement actions, remediation orders, and fines as set out in the municipal code.

Key Takeaways

  • Check Urban Forestry before removing trees to avoid enforcement.
  • Prepare a clear site plan and photos to speed review.
  • Use the city permit portal or department contacts for submissions and questions.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Fort Worth Urban Forestry
  2. [2] Fort Worth Municipal Code on Municode
  3. [3] City of Fort Worth Development Services - Permit Center

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