Do I Need a Permit to Remove a Tree in Salt Lake City?

When it comes to tree removal in Salt Lake City, one of the first questions homeowners ask is: Do I need a permit? The answer depends on the type of tree, where it’s located, and who owns the property.

In this guide, we’ll break down when permits are required, what the city looks for, and how to make sure your tree removal is safe, legal, and hassle-free.

When a Permit Is Required in Salt Lake City

In Salt Lake City, a tree removal permit may be required if:

• The tree is on public property (including park strips between the sidewalk and street).
• The tree is considered a city tree maintained under the Urban Forestry Division.
• The tree is part of a protected species list or historic designation.
• The property is in a regulated area (such as certain historic districts).

For trees on your private property, permits are usually not required unless the tree is impacting public utilities, sidewalks, or city property.

Who Regulates Tree Permits?

The Salt Lake City Urban Forestry Division oversees tree care, planting, and removal on city-owned property. They ensure that healthy trees aren’t removed unnecessarily and that replacements are planted when required.

If you’re unsure about your specific tree, it’s best to call the city before starting any removal. Fines can apply if a protected tree is cut down without approval.

How to Apply for a Tree Removal Permit

If your tree qualifies for a permit, here’s the general process:

1. Contact the Urban Forestry Division at Salt Lake City Public Lands.
2. Submit a permit application with details on the tree, reason for removal, and property location.
3. Inspection: A city arborist may inspect the tree.
4. Approval or denial depending on the health, safety risks, and environmental impact.
5. Replacement requirement: In some cases, the city requires planting a new tree in place of the one removed.

Common Exceptions

You typically do not need a permit for:

• Trees located fully within your yard on private property.
• Removing dead, diseased, or hazardous trees that do not affect public property.
• Trimming or pruning trees for maintenance (as long as they’re not city-owned).

FAQs

Q: What happens if I remove a city tree without a permit?
A: You could face fines and be required to replace the tree at your expense.

Q: How do I know if my tree is a “city tree”?
A: If it’s planted on the park strip or near sidewalks/streets, it may be city-owned. Call Urban Forestry to confirm.

Q: Do HOAs in Salt Lake require approval for tree removal?
A: Many do. Always check HOA rules before cutting down a tree in your neighborhood.

Local Expertise You Can Trust

Tree removal can be confusing, especially when permits are involved. At Noble Tree Service, we help Salt Lake homeowners determine whether a permit is required and handle removals safely and legally.

If you’re unsure about your situation, call us today for a free consultation — we’ll walk you through the steps and get the job done right.

📞 Contact Noble Tree Service at (385) 462-7851 for expert tree removal in Salt Lake City.