Tree Permits
Public trees and private residential trees are regulated by Milwaukie's tree code (MMC 16.32). Trees are regulated at different sizes, measured in diameter at breast height (DBH) which is 4.5 feet from the ground. To learn how to measure a tree in DBH, read the 'How to Measure a Tree's Diameter Fact Sheet', accessible on the city's urban forest website.
Approved city permits are required before performing the following tree work:
- Removal of a public tree greater than 2" DBH requires a Public Tree Permit
- Major pruning of a public tree (>20% healthy canopy removed at one time, or >10% healthy root structure) requires a Public Tree Permit
- Removal of a private tree in a residential zone greater than 6" DBH requires a Private Tree Permit (Type 1 or 2)
- Development tree permits are required when constructing a new dwelling unit on private residential property, regardless of tree removal
Tree removals in mapped natural resource areas may require additional approvals:
Any tree work located within a habitat conservation area (HCA) or in the Willamette Greenway requires additional planning review. Applicants can verify the locations of the HCAs and the Willamette Greenway by using the Milwaukie Zoning Map and clicking on the layers button (stacked squares) on the left of the page, selecting the HCA and Willamette Greenway layers. If tree removal is located within an HCA or the Willamette greenway mapped natural resource areas, the applicant should contact the Milwaukie Planning Department to discuss required documentation and additional approvals. Applicants may proceed with the Tree Removal application at the same time. Users should contact the Planning Department to verify property zoning or to inquire about applicable development regulations at [email protected] or 503-786-7630.
Emergency tree removals are in extreme circumstances only - notify the city ASAP and collect documentation of eligibility:
For emergency tree removals during business hours, contact the Urban Forest phone line at 503-786-7655. For after-hours, call the non-emergency police line at 503-786-7500, and they will dispatch an on-call Public Works staff member. Applicants will be required to provide documentation of an emergency, including photos of the tree before and after removal, as part of the application. Failure to provide supportive documentation may result in the tree removal being treated as an illegal tree removal with associated penalties as outlined in the city's consolidated fee schedule.
Hazard tree removals may not qualify as emergency tree removals. To learn more, visit the Tree Emergencies and Retroactive Permits webpage.