Tree Removal Permits Detroit: What To Know

if you’re thinking about cutting down a tree, stop right there. Before you fire off the chainsaw crew, you might need to know about the Detroit tree removal permit request requirements whether it’s a dead tree in your backyard or an old oak cleaning towards your house, Detroit doesn’t let anyone remove a tree without jumping through a few legal hoops 

This guide gives the straightforward facts on what’s allowed, what isn’t, and how to stay out of trouble with the City. Let’s break down what you need.

What are tree permits? 

Trees are more than shade providers. They help produce air, popular pollution, manage storm, waters, and make neighborhoods more livable. Because of that the city of Detroit wants to protect the urban canopy. The goal is a balanced private property rights with public environment benefits. 

The city has a tree ordinance in place to manage.

• tree removal on private property
• tree removal on public property or rights of way
• Damage or disturbance to protect species

Detroit isn’t unique here. Most cities in Michigan and the United States have similar ordinance. Let’s get into the specifics.

When do you need to remove them in Detroit or a permit?

Here’s when you definitely need a permit in Detroit.

If the tree is on public property

Any tree located in:

• The city is right of way, usually the strip between the sidewalk and the street
• A public park
• A public roadway

You absolutely need permission from the city of Detroit Forestry department. Removing or even trimming these trees without approval can lead to find and even legal action.

If it’s a heritage or protected tree

Detroit pays extra attention to certain trees, especially large or historical significant ones, sometimes called heritage trees. These may include.

• Rare native species
• Large diameter trees, usually 24 inches or more
• Trees listed as protected under the local or state law

If you need a permit, often, the bonus assessment needs to be taken before taking one of these down.

If you’re doing construction work

Planning on building an addition? Putting in a new driveway? If there is trees near the Work area, especially near the sidewalk you need to apply for a permit to remove or even disturb the root system.

The city will likely ask for:

• A site plan
• A description of the why the tree must be removed
• A replanting migration plan

Why you don’t need a tree removal permit?

Not every tree needs paperwork. If there is a tree that meets these conditions are probably in the clear.

• if the tree is on 100% private property
• If it’s not in the public right away
• If it’s not protected species or heritage
• It’s dead, disease or poses a immediate danger

But there is a catch, even if you’re in a clear legally, it’s a smart move to document the condition of the tree with a photo or a written Arabist report just in case the city asked questions later.

How to apply for a tree removal permit in Detroit

• phone 313-628-0900
• Email: forestry@detroitmi.gov
• Or visit the city of Detroit Forest Street division website

Guide you through the process and tell you if you need to file an application.

Submit required documents

You may have to include

• property address
• Description of the tree – this can be a species, size, location
• Reason for removal
• Site plan or photos
• Arborist evaluation – if this is required

Wait for inspection

In most cases, the city will send somebody to inspect the tree. They’ll decide if removal is necessary or if pruning or treatment is a better option.

Permit approval

Once you have approval, you can remove the tree, but make sure you follow any conditions attached to the permit such as replanting new trees.

What happens if you skip the permit?

Don’t risk it.

Removing your tree in Detroit without the proper permit can lead to.

• find starting at $500
• A court summons
• Order to replace or replant the tree
• Possible civil liability, if the tree was on public land

The city takes this stuff, seriously, especially if it’s part of construction or development project. Cutting corners here, can delay the project or even shut it down entirely.

Replanting  requirements

Sometimes the city will require you to replace or remove a tree especially if it’s on public property or part of a new development. The rule of thumb is usually one for one replacement, but they may require multiple new trees, depending on the size or the species of the one being removed.

You might be able to pay a tree migration fee instead of replanting, but this depends on the specific case.

Hiring a pro makes life easier

Look, the average homeowner doesn’t have time to deal with the city permit, Arborist reports, and the red tape. If you’re not sure where the property line is or what kind of tree you got, hi local tree removal company that knows the Detroit laws inside and out

A professional crew can

• Help determine if you you need a permit
• Handle the application process
• Coordinate with the city
• Safely remove the tree and dispose of the debris

They also can help protect your yard, avoid utility line damage, and stay on the right side of the law.

Final thoughts

tree removal in Detroit isn’t just grabbing sign and getting to work. The city has clear rules and permit requirements to protect both public safety and the environment. Whether you’re removing a dry maple on your yard or clearing a lot for construction, following the process will save you a headache, fines, and delays. When in doubt, ask the city. 

Or better yet to hire somebody who does this for a living and knows how to cut through the red tape.