Background:

Trees are a natural resource and improve air quality, lower air temperature, reduce storm water runoff, raise property values, and contribute to the aesthetics of neighborhoods within the Borough of Doylestown.  As such, the Borough of Doylestown has a Tree Removal Ordinance that regulates the removal of trees within in the Borough. This ordinance  requires that prior to removal of any protected tree; the property owner shall acquire a Tree Removal Permit from the Department of Building and Zoning, located at 57 West Court Street. There is a $15 fee for each tree you are requesting to remove under this permit. 

 When A Tree Removal Permit is Required:
A Tree Removal Permit is required to remove any protected tree. Protected trees are defined as:

• Any deciduous tree 10 inches or greater in diameter measured at 48 inches above the ground.
• Any evergreen tree 8 inches or greater in diameter measured at 6 inches above the ground.
• Any ornamental or unique species or quality tree 5 inches or greater in diameter measured at 6 inches above the ground.
• Dead and damaged tree removal requires a permit unless emergency removal is authorized by the police, the fire department, or Borough staff.
• A permit is not required to remove Sumac, Box Elder, Sassafras, or Ailanthus trees.

Process:

1. Complete the Tree Removal Permit Application and bring to the Borough Zoning and Planning Office at 57 West Court Street with a check for 15 dollars for each tree you are requesting to remove.

2. The staff will accept your completed permit application and advise you when the next shade tree commission meeting will occur and if you need to appear at the meeting.

3. The Borough Arborist will visit the site and inspect the tree(s) proposed for removal.

4. The Shade Tree Commission will review the removal request at the monthly meeting.  You should plan on attending in case the committee has questions.

5. The Shade Tree Commission will make a recommendation on approval of the permit and the Zoning and Planning officer will make a decision to grant or deny the permit based on the recommendation.

6. If you are not present at the meeting you will be notified of the outcome of the application with in two days of the meeting.

7. If the Tree Removal Permit is approved, the applicant must post the permit on-site during the removal of the tree. 

Click here for a Tree Removal Permit Application as a printable form to hand write on.

Click here for a Tree Removal Permit Application as a PDF you can type in and then print. Be sure to print a copy for your records because you cannot save a completed copy. You need to print the completed applicaiton and mail or bring it to the Borough Of Doylestown 57 West Court Street, Doylestown PA 18901. Include a check for $15 for each tree you are requesting to remove made out to the Borough Of Doylestown. You will be contacted when a decision is made on your appilcation. Do not start work with out a permit in hand.

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