Frequently Asked Questions

What are some benefits of trees?

Trees supply character to a landscape, create a sense-of-place, provide a habitat for plants and animals, promote interacting within the community, temper local climate, reduce stormwater runoff/erosion, diminish building lines, conceal unsightly views, provide solitude, assist in conserving energy, and increase property values.

What type of tree is this?

There are over 100 tree species in the Hill Country area. Access the following sites for additional information: Austin Grow Green and Texas A&M Horticulture - Texas Native Trees. Additional information on identification can be found on our website, here.

What is the purpose of a tree survey?

A tree survey tag is usually an aluminum circular or rectangular label attached to the tree trunk. A tag is used for physically identifying a tree with a specific number. This number is referenced on a site plan or survey. It does not mean the tree is marked to be saved or removed.

What size trees are protected?

A protected size tree is determined by measuring the tree trunk at 4 ½ feet above ground. This is commonly known as DBH (diameter at breast height). The tree, within the Austin city limits, is protected once it reaches 8 inches in diameter (19 inches at a single family home). Diameter = Circumference / 3.1416 and Circumference = Diameter X 3.1416.

How do I measure a tree?

How do you tell the age of a tree?

The Texas Forest Service states, "Every year a tree goes through a growing season when conditions are right for it to gain size. A ring forms on the inside of tree for each year that tree has been alive. A simple core sample can be taken using a special tool known as an increment borer. The rings on this core sample are then counted to determine the age of that tree."

What are the steps for removing a protected size tree within the City of Austin?

If you have a protected size tree within the City of Austin, complete and submit the Tree Ordinance Review Application, and pay the applicable fee. Once these items are complete City staff will perform a site inspection and contact you about your request.

Will the City prune or remove my tree?

The property owner is responsible for completing the required maintenance. If the tree is located on public property the City may perform the work. See Parks and Recreation Urban Forestry web page for additional information.

Will the City pick up my tree and yard clippings?

The City’s Solid Waste Services Department manages these concerns. Information on these topics may be obtained at Brush Pick-Up and Bulky Pick-Up Guidelines .

Who do I call if I have a tree removal question?

The City Arborist (974-1876) should be contacted if you have a tree removal question. If the tree is on public property visit the Parks and Recreation Urban Forestry web page

Can I plant or remove a tree in the public Right of Way?

Trees that are located within the public Right of Way are public trees, and are regulated by the Parks and Recreation Department Urban Forestry. For more information on their regulations, click here. Public trees that are close to power lines are maintained by Austin Energy.

This can be a tricky issue. Prior to any action occurring neighbors are encouraged to interact and discuss their concerns. Legally, this is a civil matter between the property owners. Typically a landowner may remove vegetation that crosses their property line (or the air space directly above it). We encourage establishing a plan that has been approved by all parties. We also encourage using ideal pruning techniques. *Note - No more than 30% of the canopy can be removed without a permit if the tree is protected size.

Can you suggest any local growers or tree care professionals?

The City cannot endorse or suggest any specific business due to legal ramifications. However these companies are frequently grouped under "tree" in business directories. Extensive experience and knowledge of Hill Country vegetation issues are two qualities that could assist you when selecting a tree care service. Also the success of your plantings could be improved if you purchase local grown specimens and acquire them from reputable dealers.

We are often asked if we can recommend an arborist, or if we can tell people where to find a good arborist. While can not recommend specific arborists, we can certainly help you find a certified arborist that specializes in what you need. First however, it is important to know the difference between a consulting arborist and an arborist that trims and/or removes trees. Many arborists may do both, but typically if you need a diagnosis for what is wrong with your trees, you should hire a consulting arborist. If you have a tree that has been storm damaged or is dead, you should hire an arborist that specializes in tree trimming or removal. Here are a couple links that can help you find an ISA Certified arborist in your area.

http://www.treesaregood.org (Click on the "Find a Tree Care Service" link)

http://www.asca-consultants.org

When do I need tree permit?

If you live within the City of Austin zoning jurisdiction a Tree Ordinance Review Application is required when removing a protected size tree (or if you are working within the Critical Root Zone). See our section on Regulations for specific information about protected sized trees.

Here is an informational letter addressed to all tree and landscape workers, intended as a reminder that a permit may be needed for work on protected-size trees.

What is Oak Wilt and is my tree susceptible?

Most oak trees are vulnerable to oak wilt. However there are steps that limit susceptibility (i.e. using pruning spray immediately after pruning, pruning in the colder months, removing diseased firewood). Oak wilt is a serious disease caused by a fungus that attacks the vascular system of virtually all species of Oak trees resulting in the death of the tree in nearly every instance. The disease spreads mainly through interconnecting root systems of adjacent trees; and through wounds on trees (don't prune oak trees in the springtime). Large infection areas can be controlled by "forest sanitation" methods that emphasize the removal of infected trees at the perimeter of the disease area. One method of dealing with the disease is to encourage tree diversity on your land. A fungicide (Alamo) properly applied to specimen trees prior to or during the very early stages of the disease has shown some promise for controlling oak wilt.

In most cases, the answer is no. For a full explaination, read our fact file on ball moss.

How do I choose the type of tree to plant?

See the Texas Forest Service "Texas Tree Planting Guide" for great tips on what kind of tree to select, what to look for in the nursury, how to plant the tree, and more.

What is the best time of year to plant a tree?

The Texas Forest Service states, "Generally late fall through early spring is the best time to plant a new tree. Most shade and ornamental trees sold in the nursery trade are either balled-and-burlaped or container grown. Balled and burlaped trees should be planted as early as possible, preferably before bud break. Container grown trees can be planted later in the season because there is less disturbance of the plant's root system."

How is planting a tree most properly performed?

The Texas Forest Service suggests the following: Loosen the soil in your planting site to a depth of 12 inches using a shovel. Work an area 2 to 5 times the diameter of the root ball. This will provide hospitable conditions for the tree to send out roots. Do not add organic matter (compost or peat) to the loosened soil.

In the center of the planting site, dig a hole to the depth of the root ball. Set the tree in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. When removing a tree from its container, take care to avoid breaking the root ball. Position the tree and backfill with a little soil to hold it in place. Twine, wire, and burlap should be cut and pulled down off the root ball of balled and burlaped trees. Backfill with soil removed from the hole. Do not add organic matter to the backfill. As you fill the hole, use water to settle air pockets. Tamp the soil lightly, but do not compact the soil around the root ball. Build a small dam around the base of the tree with soil from the hole. This will help hold water while it percolates into the soil. Spread 3 or 4 inches of mulch (compost, wood chips, etc.) over the entire planting site. Avoid piling mulch directly against the base of the tree.

If your tree seems to need additional support, use two or three 6-foot stakes outside the root ball. Attach the tree to the stakes with wide nylon webbing. The traditional method of using rope or wire cushioned with a piece of garden hose may be effective, but it can cause damage to the tree. Whatever the method of attachment, the tree should have enough freedom to sway in the wind so it can develop strength. The stakes should be removed after the first growing season.

Fertilizer probably is not needed. If you want to fertilize, use a slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen. Some nurseries carry packets of slow-release fertilizer for trees that can be tossed into the hole along with the backfill.

For additional information visit the Tree Encyclopedia section on planting.

Who can I contact with specific problems with trees?

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: