The short answer
Most Asheville homeowners can remove a tree from their own residential lot without a city permit. The City of Asheville does have special rules for tree pruning and removal in three situations: if you operate a business on the property, if you live in asteep slope area, or if you live in a historic district. HOA rules and lots under development can add their own requirements.
Steep slope lots
Much of Asheville is built on hillsides. The steep slope section of Asheville’s Unified Development Ordinance covers tree removal and clearing on steep lots, where tree roots hold the soil and slow storm runoff. If your home sits on a steep ridge or hillside, check with the city before removing healthy trees or clearing a slope.
Historic districts
Trees in Asheville’s historic districts, such as Montford, can need approval before removal. If you are not sure whether your street is in a historic district, the city’s Permit Center can tell you.
Businesses and commercial property
Commercial properties often have landscaping and tree requirements tied to their site plan. Removing required trees can mean replanting. Ask the city before removing trees from a business property.
HOAs
Many neighborhoods around Asheville, especially in Arden, South Asheville and newer subdivisions, require HOA approval to remove trees. Your HOA may ask for a written estimate and proof of insurance. We provide both.
Outside city limits
Weaverville, Black Mountain, Swannanoa, Fairview, Candler, Leicester and the rest of Buncombe County are outside Asheville’s city rules. Towns and the county have their own ordinances, and clearing for new construction can fall under land-disturbance and erosion-control rules. Check with your town or Buncombe County Planning if you are clearing land or building.
How to apply in Asheville
Requests go through the City of Asheville Permit Center in the Public Works Building, 161 S. Charlotte St. The city asks for:
- A site plan showing the house and the trees
- Photos of the trees
- The reason for removal (dead, dangerous, damaging the house, and so on)
- The location, number and type of trees
Tip: our free written estimate lists each tree, its size and the reason it needs work. Many homeowners attach it, with our photos, to their city or HOA request.
Sources: City of Asheville, “Asheville rules regulate tree pruning and removal”. Rules change, so confirm with the city before work starts. This guide is general information, not legal advice.