Tree Canopy Ordinance

Effective Wednesday, February 20, 2019, the City enacted a Residential Tree Canopy Management Ordinance to protect the health and growing tree canopy that we know and love in our community.

Below are important highlights of the ordinance. For complete details about how to comply with the new regulations, please contact Development Services at 512-327-1838.

• A permit is required for the removal of protected types of trees on residential lots with trunks that are 12 inches in diameter or more, measured 4.5 feet above the ground.
• Within the buildable area, the tree replacement ratio is for every 1 protected tree removed; it must be replaced with 1 tree.
• Within the “green space,” or what is commonly referred to as the set-backs of each residential lot, for every 1 protected tree removed, it must be replaced with 3 trees.
• There is a cap on the total maximum of replacement trees required.
• The protected tree types are Texas Ash, Bald Cypress, American Elm, Cedar Elm, Texas Madrone, Bigtooth Maple, All Oaks, Pecan, Arizona Walnut, and Eastern Black Walnut
• Tree species that may qualify as replacement trees are also specified in the ordinance, as are minimum standards for diameter, height, and good health. If you are going to replant near power lines, other classes of trees qualify for replacement. 
• There is the opportunity to participate in the Good Neighbor Program that allows residents to plant trees on a neighbor’s property with mutual agreement, should you run out of room on your own property.