How Norman Handles Tree Protection: A Practical Guide
Norman maintains 134 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 Norman falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
Parkway Planting
Norman requires new single-family and two-family homes to plant at least one street-frontage tree before the city issues a certificate of occupancy, under IRC Section R328.1 as added to the residential code by NCC 6-209. Corner lots need one tree per street frontage, and lots over 10,000 square feet need two, chosen from the city's approved species list.
Key details: Trigger: Building permit for a new single or two-family home. Minimum caliper: Two-inch caliper, measured 6 inches above ground. Corner lots: One tree required per street frontage. Species source: Must come from Appendix D, Section B plant list. Effective date: May 12, 2008.
Building Officials enforce Section R328.1 at the certificate-of-occupancy stage: a home without its required street tree, or a receipt showing a purchase and planting date, does not get its CO. A homeowner who lets a required tree die without replacing it is out of step with the maintenance duty in R328.1, and the city's general Code penalty under NCC 1-114, a fine up to $750.00 and/or up to 60 days, applies to Code violations that carry no specific penalty of their own.
Heritage & Protected Trees
Property owners can nominate a tree on their own land as a 'historic tree' under NCC 16-912 if it shows at least three qualifying traits, including a trunk 36 inches DBH or larger, excellent health or structure, or historical importance. Once the Tree Board approves it, protection runs in perpetuity and the owner must record a deed restriction.
Key details: Qualifying traits needed: At least 3 of 6 listed characteristics. Trunk-size trait: 36 inches DBH or more. Approval authority: Tree Board, after Foresters' recommendation. Owner obligation: Record a deed restriction naming the City. Duration: Protection runs in perpetuity.
Altering a designated historic tree without a release under 16-912 is treated like an unauthorized street-tree removal under 16-904: an administrative fine of up to $50.00 per inch DBH, capped at $2,000.00. An owner can reduce that fine by planting replacement trees within six months, from a $200.00 credit for one tree up to a $2,000.00 credit for five, subject to the Foresters' approval of species and location.
The Bottom Line
Norman'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 Norman is broadly strict or permissive.
This guide is based on Norman's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.