Tree Protection in Philadelphia, PA

If you live in Philadelphia or are thinking about moving there, tree protection are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Philadelphia has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of tree protection, and some of them might surprise you.

Protected Tree Species

Philadelphia's Zoning Code defines a "Heritage Tree" as any tree with a diameter breast height of 24 inches or more that belongs to a species on the Department of Parks and Recreation's Heritage Tree Species List. Once a tree meets both tests, Title 14 requires it be logged on every landscape and tree plan and bars removal unless the applicant meets narrow standards or wins a special exception.

Key details: Protected size threshold: 24 inches diameter at breast height (DBH) or more. Species test: Must be on Parks & Recreation's Heritage Tree Species List. Governing definition: Philadelphia Code § 14-203(145). Removal restriction: § 14-705(1)(f): barred absent standards or special exception. Documentation duty: Location, DBH, species logged on every landscape and tree plan.

Failing to identify a Heritage Tree on the required landscape and tree plan, or removing one without meeting the § 14-705(1)(f)(.1) standards or a Zoning Board special exception under § 14-705(1)(f)(.2), is a Title 14 violation that the Department of Licenses and Inspections enforces at the permit stage: L&I will not approve a zoning permit for a plan that misstates or omits a protected tree, and unauthorized removal can trigger the same species-and-size replacement obligation the applicant was trying to avoid.

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

Parkway Planting

New developments over 5,000 sq. ft. must plant one street tree every 35 feet of frontage, spaced at least 15 feet apart, under Philadelphia's zoning code.

Key details: Trigger: Lots over 5,000 sq ft; 3+ lot subdivisions. Spacing: One tree per 35 ft of frontage. Trunk gap: At least 15 ft between tree trunks. Exempt: Single-family and two-family home lots. Enforced by: L&I permit review; DPR bond required.

Failing to plant, replace, or maintain required street trees is a Zoning Code violation subject to enforcement penalties under § 14-306, plus forfeiture of the posted bond or deposit.

The Bottom Line

Philadelphia'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 Philadelphia is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Philadelphia's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.