2026 GUIDE • WASHINGTON DC

How much does a tree removal permit cost in Washington DC in 2026

Most property owners in Washington DC pay $100 – $600 for a tree removal permit in 2026, with the total driven by the number and size of trees, the species involved, and whether the District requires replacement planting or a mitigation payment.

DC protects its tree canopy aggressively. Even on private property, removing a mature tree usually requires approval, and the cost isn’t just the application fee — replacement trees or a mitigation payment often follow. Here’s how the numbers stack up.

Cost breakdown (2026)

Fee component	Typical 2026 cost
Tree removal permit application	$50 – $150
Per-tree review or inspection fee	$25 – $75 per tree
Replacement planting (where required)	$100 – $500 per tree
Mitigation payment (alternate to planting)	Varies by trunk size
Technology fee (10%)	~10% where applicable
Enhancement fee (6%)	~6% where applicable
Typical total	$100 – $600

Multi-tree removals — clearing a lot for a new build — multiply both the per-tree fees and the replacement obligation. If your project involves site work, review the building permit costs alongside this step.

What affects the price

• Number of trees. Each tree adds an inspection and, if approved, a replacement or mitigation obligation.
• Trunk diameter and species. Larger and protected species carry higher replacement or mitigation requirements.
• Tree location. Street trees, trees in public space, and trees in special districts face stricter rules than ordinary private-yard trees.
• Tree health. Hazard trees documented as dying or dangerous can be approved with fewer mitigation requirements.
• Project context. Removals tied to a larger permitted project are reviewed as part of that project’s scope.

How the fee is calculated

DOB uses a formula, not a flat rate. Under the DOB fee schedule (2026):

1. Filing fee: roughly $32, charged up front where a DOB permit is involved.
2. Base permit fee: tiered by declared construction value — roughly $148 for the first $1,000, then about $10 per additional $1,000. Minimum flat tiers for very low-value work run around $33 – $65.
3. 10% technology fee: added on top of the permit fee.
4. 6% enhancement fee: also added on top.
5. Zoning fee: where a zoning review applies.

Tree removal review is administered through the District’s urban forestry program and is charged separately from the DOB permit math. The key takeaway: fees scale with declared construction value for the permit itself, while tree costs scale with how many trees you remove and how large they are.

Tree review also depends on timing and documentation quality. An arborist report should state species, trunk diameter, and condition with photographs, and it should explain why removal is necessary if the tree is healthy. Vague applications get held. On construction sites, retained trees need protection zones marked before equipment arrives, because damage to roots and trunks during excavation can trigger penalties even when no removal was permitted.

Timeline & steps

1. Document the trees. A certified arborist report identifying species, size, and condition is usually required.
2. Apply for the removal permit. Submit the application with photographs and the arborist report.
3. Site inspection. An inspector verifies the trees and their condition — typically within 1 – 3 weeks.
4. Approval and conditions. Approval often comes with replacement planting or mitigation requirements.
5. Removal and replanting. Complete removal under permit and plant replacements as specified.

Common mistakes

• Removing before approval. Unpermitted removal carries significant penalties and mandatory replacement costs.
• Skipping the arborist report. Applications without documentation stall in review.
• Overlooking replacement obligations. Budgeting only the permit fee and missing the planting cost is the classic surprise.
• Cutting into protected root zones. Construction damage to retained trees can trigger violations even without removal.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my own property in DC?

Often yes, particularly for trees above a certain trunk size, and always for street trees. Confirm the threshold for your property before scheduling removal.

How much is the tree removal permit itself?

The application and per-tree review typically run $50 – $150 plus modest per-tree fees. Replacement planting or mitigation is usually the larger cost.

Can I avoid the replacement requirement?

Sometimes. Hazard trees or removals in constrained locations may qualify for modified requirements, but replacement or mitigation is the default. Discuss options during the application.

How long does approval take?

Plan on 1 – 4 weeks from a complete application, longer if the site requires follow-up inspection or if the tree is contentious.

Who can remove the tree once approved?

A licensed and insured tree contractor should perform the work under the approved permit, and replacement planting must match the approved species and size.

Disclaimer

Figures on this page are 2026 estimates based on the DC Department of Buildings fee schedule. Fee schedules change; always verify current amounts with DOB directly or through the CitizenAccess portal before filing. This article is informational and is not legal or financial advice.