Tree Removal

This page provides guidance and resources for the removal of trees on private and public property. 

Rules for removing a tree on private property:

Removal of significant trees is regulated by Section 3.06.07 of the Woodburn Development Ordinance. The City uses Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) to measure the size of a tree. A DBH measurement is simply the diameter of the tree trunk measured 4.5 feet above the ground. A “significant tree” is any tree with a DBH of 24 inches or more. If you have a significant tree on your property that you would like permission to remove, please complete and submit a Significant Tree Removal Permit Application for review. Permit reviews are subject to the following:

• Trees with a DBH of less than 24 inches can be removed without a permit.

• Trees with a DBH of 24 inches or more must obtain a Significant Tree Removal Permit. In order to be approved, a certified arborist must provide a letter confirming that the tree is dead, diseased, dying, structurally unsound, or hazardous to life or property. Removal of significant trees is regulated by Section 3.06.07 of the Woodburn Development Ordinance.

• In emergency situations, a dangerous Significant Tree can be removed prior to obtaining a permit. Note that you must still apply for the removal permit within three days. It is strongly advised that you take photo evidence of the dangerous tree prior to removal.

Please complete and submit the Significant Tree Removal Permit below. If your permit is approved, you will be required to follow replacement requirements.
Please see the list of prohibited trees before replanting.
 

How do I have a public street tree removed?

Removal of street trees is regulated by Ordinance No. 2424, which is found in the Woodburn Ordinance Compilation under Local Improvements. A "street" tree is defined as a tree, shrub, or other woody vegetation on land, the trunk of which is located wholly or partially within the right-of-way along either side of a street, avenue, or other way or within a dedicated side of a street, avenue, or other way.

If there is a street tree that is causing a problem you will have to complete an application & permit to remove a street tree. A permit must first be obtained by the Public Works Director in order to remove a street tree. Permits to remove street trees will only be granted if one of the following conditions exist:

• The tree is dangerous and may be made safe only by its removal.

• The tree is dead or dying, and its condition cannot be reversed.

• The tree is diseased and presents a potential threat to other trees within the City unless it is removed.

• The tree is causing damage, which cannot be corrected through normal tree maintenance, to private or public infrastructure as defined by this Ordinance.

Subject to the availability of funds in the City's budget, the Public Works Director is authorized to expend City funds to share in the cost of removal of street trees according to the following formula:

The City may require that a new tree be planted as a replacement by the Real Property Owner, at the Real Property Owner's expense, after permit approval.

Questions?  For trees on private property, contact the Planning Division 503-982-5246 or for street trees, contact the Public Works Department.