YardCareDirectory

Alabama Tree Removal Permit Requirements

LOCAL RULES VARY

No statewide permit law. Local ordinances apply in larger cities.

Issuing authority: Local city or county public works department
Permit Fee
Varies by municipality
Processing Time
3–10 business days
Protected Species
2
City Rules Listed
2
Protected Species in AL
Live OakLongleaf Pine
These species commonly trigger permit requirements or stricter review in Alabama jurisdictions. Check with your specific city — protections vary by municipality.
Common Exemptions
  • +Dead or hazardous trees
  • +Trees under 6 inches DBH in most cities
  • +Storm emergency removal

Exemptions still often require documentation. Bring photos, contractor assessments, or an ISA-certified arborist report to support a hazard or disease claim.

Heritage Trees

Some cities (Birmingham, Huntsville) maintain heritage tree registers. Check with city arborist.

Penalties for Unpermitted Removal

Fines up to $500 per tree for unpermitted removal in regulated areas.

Rules by City in Alabama

Birmingham

Trees over 8 in. DBH on private property require a permit for removal.

Fee: $25 per treeMust plant replacement trees.
Huntsville

Heritage tree designation requires council approval before removal.

Fee: No fee for standard permitsHeritage trees require replacement 2:1.
Tips for Alabama Homeowners
  1. Contact your city's public works or urban forestry department before scheduling removal.
  2. Dead or storm-damaged trees are typically exempt but document the hazard with photos.
  3. Your contractor should pull the permit — if they refuse, that is a red flag.
HOA Consideration: Many Alabama HOAs have tree removal restrictions independent of city rules. Review your CC&Rs before proceeding.
Find tree services in Alabama that handle permits
Licensed professionals know local rules and will pull permits for you.
Tree Services in Alabama