Most trees in Salem can come down without asking anyone. Some can’t. If you take out a protected tree without approval, you’re the one holding the bag, so it’s worth five minutes to check.

Here’s the short version, in plain English. If you’d rather have someone look at it, call (503) 773-5301 and we’ll tell you what you’ve got.

The three kinds of protected trees

Salem protects these on private property:

• Oregon White Oaks measuring 20 inches or more in diameter at chest height
• Any tree measuring 30 inches or more in diameter, not counting invasive species such as Tree of Heaven and Empress Tree
• Trees within 50 feet of a waterway (riparian trees)

Everything else on your property is generally fair game.

How to measure your tree in two minutes

Diameter is measured at chest height, about 4.5 feet off the ground.

1. Wrap a tape measure around the trunk at that height and note the distance around.
2. Divide that number by 3.14.
3. The result is the diameter.

So a trunk that measures 63 inches around is about 20 inches across, right at the oak threshold. A trunk 94 inches around is about 30 inches across, the limit for other species. If you’re close to the line, measure twice or have us confirm it.

Heavy pruning can count as removal

This is the part that catches people out. The city treats it as removal when 30% or more of a tree’s crown, trunk or root system is taken. So a hard reduction on a big protected oak can need approval, even though the tree stays standing. Ordinary trimming doesn’t.

That’s also why trenching for a driveway or foundation near a protected tree matters. Cutting a third of the root system counts.

When the city approves a removal

Permits are granted for specific reasons, including:

• A hazardous tree where pruning won’t fix the danger
• Repairing or replacing a structure that has been there since June 2000
• Water-dependent work that needs access to a waterway
• Restoration that improves riparian habitat
• Certain development projects meeting city standards

Wanting more light, fewer leaves in the gutters or a bigger lawn is generally not enough on its own.

What an application involves

Applications go through the city’s Permit Application Center Portal. Expect to provide:

• A written explanation of why the tree should come out
• An ISA risk assessment form from a certified arborist, if you’re claiming the tree is hazardous
• Photos and supporting documentation
• The application fee listed in the city’s Master Fee Schedule

Heritage trees have their own process and need arborist documentation showing a hazard. Check the current rules on the City of Salem website, since they change from time to time.

How we help

• We measure the tree and tell you whether it’s protected, before you spend anything.
• We can connect you with a certified arborist for the risk assessment when one is needed.
• If the tree isn’t protected, we can usually schedule the removal straight away.
• If it is protected but the removal is justified, we’ll work with your timeline and the permit process.

Common questions

Does trimming need a permit? No, ordinary trimming doesn’t. Taking 30% or more does.

What about a tree that just fell or is about to? Emergencies are handled differently. Call the city, and call us. Don’t wait on paperwork if something is about to come down on a house. More about emergency tree service

What about the tree between the sidewalk and the street? Street trees sit in the city right-of-way and follow separate rules. Check with the city before touching one.

Who’s responsible if the wrong tree comes out? The property owner. That’s the reason to confirm first.

Not sure what you’ve got? Send a photo of the tree and a measurement to info@salemtreepros.com, or call (503) 773-5301.

Call or text (503) 773-5301