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The City Arborist Program (página español)

Anouncements

Time to Plant Trees!
Late fall and winter are the best times to put new trees in the ground. See our information about tree planting in the encyclopedia section.

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Trees and Drought 
Central Texas is still in a severe drought, and we must consider the impacts that the lack of rainfall may have on our trees.  Additionally, water conservation is an important consideration at this time, so water use should be carefully calculated.  Here is a basic guideline for tree care during a drought

 

Overview

Austinites recognize that trees are valuable economically, aesthetically, and for the environmental sustainability of the region. In 1983 the Austin City Council adopted one of the most progressive Tree Ordinances in the country. The Tree and Natural Area Protection Code is based on the fundamental precepts of sound urban forest management; diversification, preservation, and replenishment.

Proposed developments are reviewed to assure that a final product is achieved which results in a diversified and sustainable urban forest. City requirements are designed to achieve a balance of re-forestation and preservation, frequently emphasizing one of the two elements to achieve the best long-term benefit for the community. For information on the City of Austin's tree regulations, see the Regulations section of this website.

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Forms

Tree Permit Application
(This form can now be saved and emailed to us if a digital signature is provided) 

Basic information on development and trees

Tree risk evaluation form (for certified arborists)

 

 

 

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Assistance with Development and Tree Preservation Issues 

The City Arborist Program

(512) 974-1876

505 Barton Springs Rd, 4th Floor
Austin, Tx 78704

Schedule a Residential Inspection

(512) 974-1876

 

Pre-design/development assistance

(512) 974-2639

 

Heritage Tree Concerns

(512) 974-2755

 

You may have a specific tree concern and wonder if the City will assist you with this matter. There are multiple tree-related concerns that will determine if the City can assist you. Are limbs hampering traffic flow? Is a fallen tree clogging a waterway? Has a tree fallen on utility lines? Is a tree blocking the alley? Is a tree creating a blind spot at an intersection? The following list helps to identify whom to contact about your specific tree maintenance issues:

Power lines and street lamps

Austin Energy

494-9400

Streets, right-of-ways, and sidewalks

Parks and Recreation Department

3-1-1

Alleys

Public Works - Street & Bridge Division

3-1-1

Creeks and stream banks

Watershed Protection - Field Operations

3-1-1

Reporting Illegal Tree Removals
Is someone cutting down a large tree in your neighborhood and you are unsure if they have a permit? You can first check here to see if they have a permit: https://www.ci.austin.tx.us/devreview/index.jsp .

If they do not, then contact 311 or email us any time via the email hotline.  The message will be received, even on the weekends.

 


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