Tree Protection in Baton Rouge, LA (2026)
3 verified tree protection rules for Baton Rouge, Louisiana, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
Baton Rouge requires commercial tree removal work on public property and rights-of-way to be performed by a licensed arborist under Title 9, Chapter 11. Private property tree removal generally does not require a city permit, except in historic districts and for certain protected live oaks. State arborist licensing is
Baton Rouge Arborist License and Tree Removal Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsHeritage & Protected Trees
Baton Rouge protects large-caliper heritage trees — notably live oaks 20 inches DBH or larger and pecans 24 inches DBH or larger — from removal without a permit from the Landscape Division. Removal without authorization can trigger fines up to $5,000 per tree. An ISA arborist report may be required.
Baton Rouge Protected Heritage Trees Permit and Fine Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsTree Replacement Requirements
Baton Rouge requires licensed arborists for regulated tree work and mandates replacement trees when protected trees are removed. Title 9, Chapter 11 governs arborists; the Unified Development Code (Title 7) sets landscape and tree-replacement standards for development projects.
Arborist Licensing and Tree Replacement Rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for East Baton Rouge Parish county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Baton Rouge city rules.
Tree Protection in East Baton Rouge Parish →