Thinking about pruning or removing a tree in Hillsborough? Before you call a crew, it helps to know when permits apply, how the Historic District rules work, and how to care for your trees the right way. Trees add value, shade, and character to your property, and the town offers a unique way to honor special specimens through the Treasure Trees program. In this guide, you will learn when approvals are needed, the simple steps to follow, smart care tips, and how to nominate a tree for recognition. Let’s dive in.
Why trees matter in Hillsborough
Trees shape Hillsborough’s charm and help your home’s curb appeal. The Town’s Tree Board recognizes notable trees through the local Treasure Trees program and supports community tree care. You can explore recognized trees and learn how the program works on the Town’s Treasure Trees page.
When you need approval
Before you cut, check the rules. Requirements change based on location and the type of work.
Historic District properties
If your home is in the local Historic District, removing a mature tree or making major exterior changes usually requires a Certificate of Appropriateness. Review the Town’s guidance on Historic District permits to understand what counts as minor work versus projects that need approval.
Work tied to construction or site changes
Tree work that is part of new construction, additions, driveways, or grading often triggers landscaping and tree conservation standards in the Town’s Unified Development Ordinance. Start with the UDO overview and confirm specifics with planning staff.
Trees in rights-of-way or on public property
Trees in the public right-of-way are managed by the Town. Report hazardous public trees to staff rather than removing them yourself. The Tree Board advises the Town on these cases.
Large or notable trees on private lots
Big or heritage trees can face extra scrutiny during redevelopment. The UDO has landscape and conservation rules, and the Tree Board promotes preservation. When in doubt, contact Town planning staff.
A simple step-by-step plan
Follow this quick workflow to stay compliant and safe.
Confirm your location. If you are in the Historic District, talk with staff about COA requirements early. See Historic District permits for timelines and guidance.
Call Town planning. Contact the Planning and Economic Development team about zoning compliance and any permits tied to the UDO. If your project also needs building permits, the Town can advise on coordination with Orange County.
Get a pro assessment. For large or complex work, hire a qualified arborist and obtain a written evaluation. This may support your permit or COA application.
Call before you dig. If you will plant, grind stumps, or dig near roots, contact NC811 at least three business days before you excavate so utilities can be marked.
Identify public trees. If the tree is in a right-of-way or on public property, report it to the Town. Do not remove it yourself.
Celebrate a special tree. To nominate a notable tree for recognition, use the Treasure Trees nomination information on the Town’s site.
Tree care basics that protect value
Thoughtful care keeps trees healthy and helps you avoid expensive mistakes.
Pruning do’s and don’ts
- Do practice selective pruning to remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
- Do avoid removing large portions of the canopy at once.
- Do hire a professional for elevated work or large branches near structures or utilities.
- Don’t top trees. For best practices and timing, review NC State Extension’s pruning guidance.
Planting and long-term care
Choose the right species for the site, plant at the correct depth, and mulch properly. Good planting sets trees up for decades of health. The NC Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry program offers helpful statewide guidance.
Hiring the right arborist
Work above ground level or near structures belongs in professional hands. Use ISA’s Find an Arborist tool to locate and verify credentials, and ask for proof of insurance and a written scope. A qualified arborist should follow ANSI A300 standards and Tree Care Industry best practices.
Hillsborough’s Treasure Trees program
What it is
The Treasure Trees program honors significant trees for size, age, beauty, or historic and wildlife value. It is an educational recognition program that builds local pride in the urban forest. Explore the Town’s Treasure Trees page for listings and details.
How to nominate a tree
Homeowners can nominate trees on private or public property. Check the Treasure Trees nomination information for the current form and instructions, or contact the Town’s program staff for help.
Explore the walking tour
See some of Hillsborough’s most notable trees on the self-guided walking tour. It is a great way to learn about species and local history.
How this impacts selling or buying a home
Trees are part of your property story. A healthy canopy can boost curb appeal, while unpermitted removal or unsafe pruning can create risk and delays. If you plan to list, consider a pre-list inspection by an arborist and confirm whether any work needs Town approval. If you are buying, factor tree condition and any pending approvals into your due diligence timeline. For coordinated guidance on timing, permits, and contractor referrals as part of your move, reach out to Dana Wicker Cantrell.
FAQs
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Hillsborough?
- It depends on location and scope, but removal of mature trees in the Historic District often requires a Certificate of Appropriateness, and development-related work may trigger UDO requirements.
What should Historic District homeowners know about tree work?
- Treat mature tree removal as regulated exterior work that likely needs a COA and contact Historic District staff early for process and timelines.
Can I prune my own shade tree safely?
- You can handle small, ground-level pruning, but hire a qualified arborist for large branches, elevated cuts, or trees near structures and utilities.
How do I nominate a tree to Hillsborough’s Treasure Trees?
- Use the Town’s Treasure Trees page to learn about criteria and obtain nomination information, or contact program staff for the current form.
What documents might the Town require for tree removal tied to development?
- Expect a description of the work, site plans, and sometimes an arborist report or a tree protection or mitigation plan based on UDO standards.
Who enforces tree and development rules in Hillsborough?
- The Town’s Planning and Economic Development Division administers the UDO and Historic District COAs, while Town crews and the Tree Board handle public trees.
Links for reference:
- Treasure Trees program: Town of Hillsborough Treasure Trees
- Historic District permits: Certificate of Appropriateness guidance
- UDO overview: Unified Development Ordinance
- Zoning permits and contacts: Zoning compliance permits
- Call before you dig: NC811
- Pruning guidance: NC State Extension on pruning shade trees
- Find and verify a pro: ISA Find an Arborist
- Statewide resources: NC Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry
- Walking tour: Treasure Trees walking tour
