# Tree removal permit checker

Check the official removal route for Portland, Toronto or Austin. This tool flags common permit triggers. It cannot confirm an exemption, tree ownership or protected status.

Use the tool on the [web page](https://arborists.fyi/tools/tree-removal-permit-checker). It works without JavaScript.

## How to use it

1. Choose city.
2. Choose tree location or status.
3. Choose does the trunk meet the local size threshold?.
4. Read the result.

## How it works

Portland, Do I Need a Tree Permit?, fetched 2026-11-10: https://www.portland.gov/ppd/tree-permits/do-i-need-tree-permit. The page requires a permit for street tree removal and private trees at 12 inches diameter at 4.5 feet and larger. Overlay zones and heritage status can apply below that size.

Toronto, When to Apply For a Tree or Ravine Permit, fetched 2026-11-10: https://www.toronto.ca/services-payments/building-construction/tree-ravine-protection-permits/when-to-apply-for-a-tree-or-ravine-permit/. The page protects private trees of 30 cm diameter or more, street trees of any size and designated ravine features. Use its current multi-stem and measurement instructions.

Austin, City Arborist, fetched 2026-11-10: https://www.austintexas.gov/page/tree-reviews-and-permitting. Protected trees start at 19 inches diameter, measured at 4.5 feet. Heritage status and site plan rules add requirements. The page has specific routes for dead, diseased and imminent hazard trees.

The checker uses city, setting and a user-confirmed size band. It never returns permission to remove. It does not decide boundary consent, emergency exceptions, overlay maps or permit conditions. Confirm these with the authority.

> For planning only. This is a limited summary of fetched city pages, not legal advice or a permit decision. Ask the authority about your tree and address.

## Questions

### Can I remove a tree because it is dead?

Do not assume an exemption. Ask the city which evidence and emergency or hazardous-tree route applies.

### Is a permit application permission to start?

No. Get the authority decision and follow its conditions before work.