Friendswood Development cut down the trees as part of an expansion in Graystone Hills, just west of I-45.
"They wiped this whole area out in probably three or four days, and nobody said a word to us," resident Dave Doty said.
The city of Conroe currently has no tree ordinance for residential properties, so the developer is entitled to clear land how it sees fit.
The developer says it had to cut down the trees to build homes, because the area is so hilly and swampy.
"The topography of the community, although very aesthetically pleasing, is extremely challenging for us as a developer and for our builders. Saving trees on individual lots has been difficult," the company said in a prepared statement.
City officials say they are currently reconsidering their policies, and expect to pass a residential tree ordinance within the next month or two.
"At the next council meeting, it's on there for a temporary measure and the committee has already started meeting for a permanent measure," Conroe city administrator Paul Virgadamo said.
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