How Madison Handles Tree Protection: A Practical Guide

Madison maintains 204 local ordinances across all categories, and 4 of those deal specifically with tree protection. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Madison falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Parkway Planting

Madison Tree Code Chapter 27 places street trees in the terrace between sidewalk and curb under City Forester jurisdiction, requiring permits for any planting, pruning, or removal and specifying approved species suited to Madison's climate and soils.

Key details: Code chapter: Madison GO Ch. 27. Manager: City Forester. Right-of-way: Terrace strip. Replacement: Appraised value billed.

Unauthorized planting, topping, or removal of a parkway tree carries forfeitures of $200-$2,000 plus appraised tree value; daily forfeitures may accrue, and contractors face stop-work orders on related permits.

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

Tree Removal Permits

Madison regulates tree removal on public property through the Forestry Section and on private property through the zoning code. Removal of street trees or trees in the terrace (boulevard) requires a city permit. On private property, tree removal may be regulated through development review, particularly for trees larger than 12 inches DBH. Madison maintains a significant urban canopy and the city's Urban Forestry Plan guides tree management and replacement priorities.

Key details: Public Trees: Permit required from Forestry Section. Private Trees: May require review for trees over 12" DBH. Street Trees: City-managed, removal restricted. Urban Forestry: Urban Forestry Plan guides management.

Unauthorized removal: $500 to $10,000 per tree depending on size and species. Replacement planting required at 2:1 or 3:1 ratio.

Heritage & Protected Trees

Madison recognizes significant trees through its urban forestry program, though it does not have a formal heritage or landmark tree registry with legal protections. The city's Urban Forestry Plan identifies priority species and notable specimens. Large, mature street trees receive extra consideration during development review and utility work. The city's Forestry Section can designate trees for preservation during construction projects near public right-of-way.

Key details: Heritage Registry: No formal heritage tree registry. Urban Forestry: Priority species identified in plan. Development Review: Large trees considered during review. Construction: Tree preservation required near ROW.

Unauthorized removal of heritage tree: $2,000 to $25,000. Damage during construction: $1,000 to $10,000 plus remediation costs.

Tree Replacement Requirements

When street trees are removed in Madison, the Forestry Section replaces them as part of its ongoing planting program. The city plants approximately 3,000 trees per year. For private development, the zoning code may require replacement trees when significant trees are removed during construction. Replacement ratios and species requirements are determined during development review. Madison's Emerald Ash Borer program has driven significant replanting with diverse species.

Key details: Street Tree Replacement: Forestry Section replaces removed street trees. Annual Planting: Approximately 3,000 trees per year. Development: Replacement may be required during review. EAB Program: Diverse species replanting after ash losses.

Failure to replace: $250 to $1,000 per tree plus required planting. Fee-in-lieu non-payment: lien on property.

The Bottom Line

Madison's tree protection rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Madison is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Madison 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.