Tree Removal Permit in Bethlehem, PA — 2024 Guide to Article 910

Bethlehem is one of the most tree-conscious municipalities in the Lehigh Valley. The City regulates tree removal through Article 910 of the Bethlehem City Code — and violations can result in significant fines and mandatory replacement plantings. Whether you are a homeowner dealing with a dying oak or a contractor planning a construction site, this guide covers everything you need to know about Bethlehem’s tree removal permit process.

Bethlehem Article 910 — Key Provisions

Article 910 of the Bethlehem City Code establishes two primary categories of protected trees:

Street Trees and Public Trees

Any tree located within the public right-of-way — between the sidewalk and curb, in medians, or on other City-owned land — is a City tree and requires a permit for removal or significant pruning. The Bureau of Conservation and Development manages the City’s street tree program and conducts inspections for removal requests.

Significant Trees on Private Property

This is where Bethlehem’s ordinance goes further than many municipalities. Trees on private property that measure 12 inches DBH or greater are classified as “significant trees” and require a permit before removal. This applies to single-family homes, commercial properties, and undeveloped lots within city limits.

To measure: wrap a tape measure around the trunk at 4.5 feet above ground. Divide circumference by 3.14159 to get diameter. A tree with a 38-inch circumference has a DBH of about 12 inches and triggers the significant tree classification.

When Is a Permit Required?

A permit is required in Bethlehem when:

• You are removing any street or public tree (any size)
• You are removing a private property tree with a DBH of 12 inches or greater
• A development or construction project requires the clearing of trees on a lot
• You are removing more than three trees of any size from a developed lot within a 12-month period

A permit is NOT required when:

• Removing trees smaller than 12 inches DBH on private property (no active construction)
• Emergency removal of a tree that has already fallen due to a storm
• Routine pruning that does not remove more than 25% of the live canopy

How to Apply for a Bethlehem Tree Removal Permit

Step 1: Gather Documentation

Before contacting the City, prepare:

• Property address and tax parcel number
• Photos of the tree from multiple angles
• Measurement of trunk diameter at 4.5 feet (DBH)
• Written statement of reason for removal (disease, hazard, construction, etc.)
• If available, arborist report confirming condition

Step 2: Submit Application

Applications are filed with the Bureau of Conservation and Development at Bethlehem City Hall (10 E. Church St). In-person filing is standard. Fees vary by tree size:

• Trees 12–18 inches DBH: approximately $25–$50
• Trees 18–24 inches DBH: approximately $50–$100
• Trees over 24 inches DBH: fees increase; replacement trees may be required

Step 3: City Inspection

A City forester or designee will inspect the tree. For hazardous trees with documented structural failure or active disease, inspection can occur within 2–3 business days. Routine requests may take 1–2 weeks.

Step 4: Replacement Tree Requirement

Bethlehem frequently requires replacement planting as a condition of significant tree removal permits. Common replacement requirements:

• 1:1 replacement for trees removed due to documented disease or irreversible decline
• 2:1 or 3:1 replacement for healthy trees removed for site development
• Replacement trees must be approved native species, typically 2-inch caliper minimum

Cost to Remove a Tree in Bethlehem with a Permit

Planning your budget for a permitted Bethlehem tree removal:

Bethlehem’s Historic District and Tree Removal

Bethlehem’s South Side Historic District and the Moravian Historic District add an additional layer of oversight. Trees visible from a public right-of-way within a historic district may require review by the Historic and Architectural Review Board (HARB) in addition to the standard tree permit process. This adds time — plan for 4–6 weeks minimum if your property is within a historic district.

Street Trees: Who Pays for Removal?

In Bethlehem, the City is responsible for removing street trees that are dead, dying, or hazardous due to natural causes. Property owners are responsible for costs when:

• The tree was damaged by the property owner or a contractor working for the owner
• The property owner requests removal of a healthy street tree for aesthetic reasons (City may or may not approve)
• Construction work on the property damaged the tree’s root system

Emergency Tree Situations in Bethlehem

After a storm, Bethlehem city crews prioritize public safety — clearing streets and power lines before addressing individual property calls. For private property emergencies (tree on a house, tree blocking access, tree leaning over occupied structure), you may proceed with removal and file for retroactive permits within 72 hours. Document everything with timestamped photos before cutting.

FAQs — Tree Permits in Bethlehem PA

Does the 12-inch DBH threshold apply to trees planted within the last 5 years?

The ordinance measures current diameter, not how long the tree has been on the property. However, a newly planted ornamental tree at 12+ inches would be unusual — this threshold primarily affects mature trees.

Can I remove a dead tree on my private property without a permit?

A dead tree over 12 inches DBH still requires a permit. The permit process for a documented dead tree is typically fast (2–5 days) but skipping it can result in fines.

What species does Bethlehem prioritize for preservation?

Native oaks, maples, and sycamores — especially large specimens — receive the most scrutiny. Invasive species like Norway maple and Callery pear are typically approved for removal without the replacement requirement.

My contractor says they handle all permits — should I trust that?

A reputable contractor will either pull the permit themselves (as an authorized contractor) or clearly explain what the homeowner needs to do. If a contractor says “don’t worry about permits,” walk away — you as the property owner are ultimately liable.

Stone Ridge Landscaping LLC handles tree removal permits throughout Bethlehem and the Lehigh Valley. We are fully licensed and insured, familiar with Article 910 requirements, and can coordinate the entire permit process so you do not have to navigate City Hall alone. Call for a free estimate today.