Tree Protection in Columbus, OH (2026)
2 verified tree protection rules for Columbus, Ohio, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Protected Tree Species
Columbus maintains official lists of tree species approved for planting along public streets, parks, and public places, plus a prohibited list that cannot be planted without the Recreation and Parks Director's written approval.
Columbus Approved and Prohibited Tree Species
Some RestrictionsColumbus City Codes § 912.07
The department shall establish and maintain the following: (A)A list of tree species that are approved for planting along public streets, in parks, and public places. Other species may be permitted with written approval of the Director.(B)A list of prohibited tree species that shall not be planted along public streets, in parks, and public places unless written approval is granted by the Director.
Parkway Planting
Want to plant a tree in the parkway strip along a Columbus street? You need a Recreation and Parks Department permit first, and the species has to come from the department's approved street tree list.
Columbus Street Tree Planting Permit Rules
Some RestrictionsColumbus City Codes § 912.05(A)
No person shall plant, set out, or engage in the maintenance of any tree or shrub by removal, stump grinding, application of herbicide or other chemicals, fertilizing, bracing, cabling, pruning, surgery work, cutting above or below the ground, or cutting of roots in a public street, park, or public space without first obtaining a permit issued by the department.(B)No person shall excavate any d...
Looking for Franklin County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Columbus city rules.
Tree Protection in Franklin County →