Frequently Asked Questions
Are You Licensed and Insured?
Yes. NW Premier Tree Services is licensed, bonded, insured, and carries workers’ compensation coverage for all employees.
Safety, compliance, and protecting our clients are extremely important to us. We follow all Oregon state regulations and City of Beaverton requirements to ensure every project is performed safely and legally.
Our team provides professional tree services throughout Beaverton, Washington County, and the greater Portland Metro area, including tree pruning, tree removal, stump grinding, arborist assessments, and 24/7 emergency tree services.
Do I Need a Tree Removal Permit in Beaverton?
Tree permit requirements in Beaverton are different from nearby cities like Portland.
In many cases, trees on private residential property can be removed without a permit, but there are important exceptions depending on the location, zoning, and type of tree.
A permit may be required in Beaverton if:
• The tree is located within the public right-of-way (street tree)
• The tree is designated as a protected or significant tree
• The property is within a natural resource or environmental protection zone
• The tree is part of an approved landscape plan or development requirement
• The tree is located on commercial, multi-family, or development property
Street trees — typically located between the sidewalk and the street — always require a permit before removal or major pruning.
Certain development projects may also require a Tree Plan application, which regulates removal, replacement, and mitigation of protected trees.
Because regulations vary by zoning and property history, the City of Beaverton often reviews tree removals case-by-case.
Rather than guessing, it’s best to verify requirements with the city arborist or planning department.
NW Premier Tree Services can help determine:
• If a permit is required
• Whether a tree is protected
• Zoning and environmental overlay restrictions
• Development landscape requirements
• Permit applications and documentation
What Happens If I Remove a Tree Without a Permit?
Removing a protected or street tree without approval can lead to enforcement actions from the City of Beaverton.
Possible consequences may include:
• City fines and civil penalties
• Required replacement or mitigation planting
• Stop-work orders or permit violations
• Additional inspections or permit delays
Street trees in particular are protected because they are located in the public right-of-way, and removal requires city authorization.
Hiring a licensed and insured tree service helps ensure the work is completed properly and within local regulations.
What If the Tree Is Dangerous?
Hazardous trees can often be removed more quickly when they pose a clear safety risk.
A tree may be considered hazardous if it has:
• Major structural defects
• Severe decay or fungal infection
• Root failure or soil movement
• Storm or impact damage
• Leaning toward structures or power lines
When a tree presents an immediate safety hazard, documentation from an arborist may be required to support removal or emergency work.
Our team can help evaluate and document hazardous trees when needed.
How Long Does the Permit Process Take?
Permit timelines vary depending on the situation.
Typical timelines include:
• Simple permits for street trees – often processed within days or weeks
• Development-related tree plans – may take longer due to planning review
• Environmental or protected tree situations – may require additional review
Planning ahead is always recommended if tree removal is part of a construction or landscaping project.
How Is Tree Size Measured?
Most cities measure tree size using DBH (Diameter at Breast Height).
DBH is measured 4.5 feet above the ground on the trunk of the tree.
This measurement helps determine:
• Tree size classification
• Permit requirements
• Replacement or mitigation obligations
Our arborists measure DBH during estimates when permits may be required.
Do You Handle Emergency Tree Removal?
Yes. We provide 24/7 emergency tree services in Beaverton and Washington County.
Emergency services include:
• Storm damage cleanup
• Trees fallen on homes or structures
• Road or driveway blockages
• Broken or hanging limbs
• Hazardous leaning trees
Safety is our top priority, and our crews respond quickly to restore safe conditions.
Will My Lawn Be Damaged?
Tree removal equipment and debris movement can sometimes disturb lawns or landscaping, especially during wet Oregon conditions.
We take precautions to minimize impact, but some ground disturbance may occur during large removals.
Do You Haul Everything Away?
Typically, we chip all branches and smaller debris and haul the chips away so the area is left clean and manageable.
The main trunk wood is usually cut into 16–18 inch rounds and stacked near the base of the tree. We do not split firewood.
If you prefer the wood fully removed from the property, we can include full wood hauling for an additional fee.
Stump grinding can also be added if you would like the stump removed below ground level.
All cleanup and service details are clearly outlined in your written estimate.
Is It Legal to Trim Branches From Your Neighbor’s Tree in Oregon?
Yes. Oregon law generally allows you to trim branches or roots that extend over your property line.
However:
• You may only trim up to the property boundary
• You cannot enter your neighbor’s property without permission
• The trimming cannot damage or kill the tree
If excessive trimming harms the tree, the person performing the trimming could be held responsible for damages.
When Is the Best Time to Prune Trees?
The best time to prune most trees in the Pacific Northwest is during the dormant season, typically late fall through early spring.
Dormant season pruning:
• Reduces stress on the tree
• Minimizes disease risk
• Encourages healthy spring growth
Dead, damaged, or hazardous branches can be removed any time of the year when necessary.
When Is the Best Time to Remove Trees?
Trees can be safely removed year-round.
However, late fall through early spring is often the most efficient time because:
• Trees have less foliage
• Ground conditions are easier for equipment
• Access and visibility are improved
Hazardous or damaged trees should be removed as soon as possible regardless of season.
Do You Work With Insurance Companies?
Yes. We frequently work with insurance companies for storm damage and emergency tree situations.
We can provide:
• Damage documentation
• Photos and reports
• Detailed estimates for insurance claims
In many emergency situations we can begin work immediately and coordinate with the insurance claim process.
Do You Grind the Stump After Removing a Tree?
Stump grinding is an optional service and is typically listed separately from tree removal.
If requested, we can grind the stump below ground level so the area can be replanted or landscaped.
Before stump grinding, we contact Oregon 811 to have underground utilities located and marked. Oregon law requires anyone performing excavation or ground-disturbing work to notify 811 at least two business days before digging.
Once utilities are marked, stump grinding can safely proceed.
Do You Accept Credit Cards or Financing?
Yes. We accept many payment options including:
• Cash
• Check
• Debit and credit cards
• PayPal
• Zelle
Financing is also available through Wisetack, where qualified clients can apply for payment plans before the project begins.
If you have questions about tree removal permits in Beaverton, protected trees, zoning overlays, or hazardous tree removal, our team can help guide you through the process and ensure your project stays compliant with local regulations.