How Long Does a Tree Removal Permit Take?
Updated 2025
Standard trees: 5–15 business days. Heritage or large trees: 15–30 business days. Dead tree permits: 2–5 business days. Emergency verbal authorization: same day to 24 hours.
What Drives Timeline?
- City workload: Spring and post-storm periods create backlogs. Winter is often fastest.
- Tree classification: Heritage trees require more review steps.
- Application completeness: Missing documents pause the clock.
- Site inspection: Required for large trees — adds 5–10 days.
Approval Timelines by City
| City | Standard Tree | Heritage/Large | Dead Tree | Emergency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin, TX | 7–14 days | 15–21 days | 3–7 days | Same day (verbal) |
| Dallas, TX | 5–10 days | 10–15 days | 3–5 days | 24–48 hours |
| Plano, TX | 5–7 days | 7–10 days | 2–4 days | 24 hours |
| Portland, OR | 7–14 days | 14–21 days | 3–7 days | 24–48 hours |
| Seattle, WA | 10–20 days | 20–30 days | 5–10 days | 24 hours |
| Atlanta, GA | 5–10 days | 10–15 days | 3–5 days | 48–72 hours |
| Denver, CO | 7–14 days | 14–21 days | 5–7 days | 24 hours |
| Miami, FL | 7–15 days | 15–25 days | 5–10 days | 48 hours |
5 Ways to Speed Up Your Permit
- Submit a complete application on day one — every missing attachment adds days. Confirm requirements with the city before submitting.
- Apply online when available — online portals route faster and flag missing attachments immediately.
- Request a pre-application consultation — many cities offer this free. Arrive already familiar to the reviewing arborist.
- Apply in winter or early fall — spring and post-storm periods create backlogs. November–February is typically fastest.
- Clearly document dead or hazard status — well-documented dead tree applications are consistently processed faster.
Once approved, permits are valid for 90–180 days typically. If you don't complete removal within the validity window, you may need to reapply. Factor contractor availability into your timeline before submitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
No — beginning removal before permit approval is treated as unpermitted removal subject to full violation penalties, even if the permit is later approved. The only exception is a documented emergency where you have received explicit verbal authorization from a city official before work begins.
Reschedule the contractor. Do not begin work without the permit. Contact your permit office about expediting if you have a legitimate time constraint. A reputable arborist company will not work without a permit.
Related: How to Apply · Permit Costs