Tree Protection in Albuquerque, NM (2026)
4 verified tree protection rules for Albuquerque, New Mexico, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
Albuquerque regulates tree removal on public property and within rights-of-way through the Parks and Recreation Department. The city's Urban Forest Management program oversees street trees and park trees. Private property tree removal is generally not restricted unless trees are in designated overlay zones or subject to landscape requirements under the IDO.
Albuquerque Tree Removal Permit Rules
Some RestrictionsHeritage & Protected Trees
Albuquerque recognizes significant trees through its Urban Forest Management program, though it does not have a formal heritage tree ordinance with specific legal protections. Notable trees in parks and public spaces receive protection through the Parks and Recreation Department. The Rio Grande bosque cottonwood forest is the primary protected urban forest in the city.
Albuquerque Heritage & Protected Tree Rules
Some RestrictionsTree Replacement Requirements
Albuquerque requires tree replacement when trees are removed as part of development projects subject to IDO landscape requirements. The Urban Forestry Division also manages replacement planting for public street trees that are removed due to disease, damage, or infrastructure projects. Desert-adapted and drought-tolerant species are strongly preferred for replacement plantings.
Albuquerque Tree Replacement Requirements
Some RestrictionsUrban Forest Equity
Albuquerque's Climate Resiliency Action Plan and Parks and Recreation Heritage tree program target canopy growth in low-tree neighborhoods, prioritizing equity in tree planting near ART, schools, and East Central where heat exposure is highest.
Urban canopy equity and Heritage tree program
Some RestrictionsLooking for Bernalillo County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Albuquerque city rules.
Tree Protection in Bernalillo County →