Fort Wayne's Tree Protection: The Rules That Matter

Fort Wayne maintains 96 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with tree protection. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Fort Wayne falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Parkway Planting

Fort Wayne requires a Board of Park Commissioners permit before anyone plants, trims, or removes a tree in the street parkway, and limits new street trees to an approved species list.

Key details: Permit authority: Board of Park Commissioners. Species: Approved list only, § 99.140(A). Tree spacing: At least 40 feet apart. Unauthorized-tree removal: 10 days after notice. Max fine: $2,500 per day.

Violating the chapter carries a fine up to $2,500 per day under the general Code penalty; unauthorized removal costs plus a lien on the property if the owner doesn't remove an unlisted tree within 10 days of notice.

Compared to other cities, Fort Wayne takes a harder line on parkway planting. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Protected Tree Species

Fort Wayne allows only Board of Park Commissioners-approved tree varieties along city streets; any other species planted in the parkway must be removed within 10 days of notice.

Key details: Approved list: ~30 named varieties, § 99.140(A). Unlisted species: Prohibited along streets. Removal deadline: 10 days after Board notice. Permit required: For any street tree work, § 99.146. Enforcement: City removal + lien on property.

Board of Park Commissioners orders removal within 10 days of notice; if the owner doesn't comply, the city does the work and places a lien on the property for the cost, plus a general penalty fine up to $2,500 under § 99.999.

This is one of the stricter rules in Fort Wayne's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

Fort Wayne is tougher than many cities when it comes to tree protection. Out of the 2 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Fort Wayne, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

Keep in mind that Fort Wayne can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.