Tree Permitting Service Update September 30, 2025

The City of Portland announced updated turnaround times for tree permitting services, effective September 30, 2025, amid challenges from increased workloads and staff reductions. Non-development tree permit decisions may take up to four weeks, while planting verification inspections for removal-and-replant permits could also take up to five weeks. The Code Compliance team aims to respond to phone and email inquiries within four business days, and major tree inspector case assignments may require up to four weeks for assignment. Administrative reviews are expected to take up to eight weeks. The city advises residents to call 503-823-TREE for tree emergencies, as emailing can delay responses.

The dispatch line operates 24/7 for urgent tree threats to public streets or sidewalks. City officials will continue to monitor workloads and adjust estimated turnaround times as needed. This proactive approach seeks to maintain service quality despite staffing challenges.