A permit is required to remove “protected” trees in Lockhart. According to Lockhart city ordinance, a “protected” tree is any tree that has a trunk circumference of 72 inches or more, measured at 4 ½ feet about natural grade level, and is one of the species listed below:

A permit is not necessary for a small trim or minimal pruning for these trees, but it doesn't hurt to check with Development Services at (512) 398-3461. However, if you’re looking to remove a considerable amount of tree limbs, make sure you apply for a permit.

Take note: If a tree is located on private property, it’s up to the property owner to trim or remove the tree—unless they couldn’t be located or failed to remove the tree after being given notice that the tree was found to be a safety hazard, dead, or diseased. For a more detailed explanation, click here.

The City of Lockhart have these rules in place to maintain the city’s urban forest.  The U.S. Forest Service stressed that trees in a populated area provide critical benefits to both residents and native wildlife.

“Urban forests help to filter air and water, control storm water, conserve energy, and provide animal habitat and shade,” the Forest Service stated. “They add beauty, form, and structure to urban design.”