Tree removal in Dublin: the local rules

Each rule below links to the section of the Dublin Municipal Code it was read from, with the code text one click away (checked October 2026). General information, not legal advice.

What Dublin's code says

Dublin code What Dublin's code adds
Exemptions	Exempt: removing a heritage tree that is an immediate hazard to life or property, with city approval. Applies: Approval by the Director, City Engineer, Police Chief, Fire Chief, or their designee. § 5.60.050 · code text Removal of a heritage tree that presents an immediate hazard to life or property, with the approval of the Director, City Engineer, Police Chief, Fire Chief or their designee; Exempt: heritage tree removal specifically approved in a city-approved development plan, use permit, site review, or subdivision map. § 5.60.050 · code text Removal that is specifically approved as part of a city-approved planned development development plan, conditional use permit, site development review, or subdivision map; Exempt: pruning heritage trees in line with the International Society of Arboriculture pruning guidelines. § 5.60.050 · code text Pruning of heritage trees that conforms with the guidelines of the International Society of Arboriculture, Tree Pruning Guidelines, current edition, on file in the Community Development Department.
Permit to remove	Yes, a permit from the Director is required. Applies: Applies to removing any heritage tree from any property in Dublin. § 5.60.050 · code text No person may remove, cause to be removed, or effectively remove any heritage tree from any property within the city of Dublin without obtaining a permit from the Director.
Replacement trees	1 or more replacement trees of a set species, size and location may be required. Applies: As a condition of a heritage tree removal permit. § 5.60.060 · code text The Director or the reviewing body having final authority over the development may grant or deny the application or grant the application with conditions, including the condition that one (1) or more replacement trees be planted of a designated species, size and location.

Who this affects

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Dublin?

Dublin's code: Yes, a permit from the Director is required. (Applies to removing any heritage tree from any property in Dublin.) (§ 5.60.050); 1 or more replacement trees of a set species, size and location may be required. (As a condition of a heritage tree removal permit.) (§ 5.60.060).

Tree removal in Dublin

What Dublin's code says

Who this affects

Frequently asked questions

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