On May 9, the City Council adopted a tree protection ordinance prohibiting tree removal without a permit.
While the ordinance is intended to protect trees and enhance the tree canopy in the City, there is a need for exemptions for dead or diseased trees, undesirable trees, trees conflicting with utilities, and projects where trees are not affected.
This includes the following:
- Removal of a diseased, severely damaged, or dead tree is authorized.
- Damage to or removal of a tree that causes an unreasonable impediment to the use and enjoyment of the applicant’s property is authorized.
- Damage to or removal of a low-value tree is authorized.*
- Damage to or removal of a tree endangering persons or property, including but not limited to the home’s foundation, is authorized.
*These are identified as low-value trees:
- Chinese Tallow
- Sugarberry (Hackberry)
- Silver Maple
- Arizona Ash
- Chinaberry
- Camphor
For more information or questions:
- Watch – Council Meeting video
- Review – City Council Agenda Packet
- Contact – Development Services at permits@bellairetx.gov or 713-662-8230
