Tree Preservation / Removal

Tree Preservation Ordinance


The Tree Preservation Ordinance helps to ensure environmentally sensitive site planning. The purpose of the ordinance is to:

  • Further the preservation of mature trees and natural areas,
  • Protect trees during construction,
  • Facilitate site design and construction to contribute to the long-term viability of existing trees, and
  • To control the removal of trees when necessary.

Southlake's current Tree Preservation Ordinance is Ordinance No. 585-E. All new development applications must comply with this ordinance. However, plans or plats approved prior to September 1, 2005 are subject to Ordinance 585-B.

Tree Conservation Map

The Tree Conservation Map is a representation of all the properties within the City of Southlake where, prior to development or zoning of the properties, existing trees were preserved as part of a formally approved Tree Conservation Plan. Removal or alteration of existing trees on the represented properties is regulated by the Tree Preservation Ordinance. Follow the link below to go to the Tree Conservation Map. Please be aware this map is updated regularly and, therefore, subject to change.

DISCLAIMER: This map is intended for general information purposes only, and because it must be continuously updated, all properties that are regulated by Tree Conservation Plans approved with the zoning or development plans as required by the Tree Preservation Ordinance may not be currently represented. If you may have any concerns, please contact the City of Southlake Planning and Development Services.

Permit Information

Tree Diseases and Problems

Off-Site Links


Tree City USA

For the 26th straight year, the City of Southlake has been named a Tree City USA Community. The award recognizes urban forestry management excellence. 

The honor is given by The Arbor Day Foundation, which recently recertified the City as a designated 2022 Tree City USA community.

Tree City USA is a program that’s been greening up cities and towns across America since 1976. This program helps provide a framework for communities to manage and expand their public trees footprint, while also celebrating the importance of an urban tree canopy and raising awareness of improving care for these vital trees.

To qualify for Tree City USA status, a community must meet four core standards of sound urban forestry management:

  • Maintaining a tree board or department;
  • Establishing a community tree ordinance;
  • Spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry;
  • Celebrating Arbor Day through a proclamation or observance

To learn more about Tree City USA, visit the Arbor Day Foundation’s website