Tree Protection in Des Moines, IA (2026)
5 verified tree protection rules for Des Moines, Iowa, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
Des Moines requires an approved tree removal and mitigation plan for any development activity triggering grading permits, site plans, or subdivision plats under Chapter 42, Article X. Tree replacement plantings are required to offset removals.
Tree Removal and Mitigation Plan Required for Development
Some RestrictionsHeritage & Protected Trees
Des Moines Chapter 42, Article X requires a tree removal and mitigation plan before obtaining grading permits, site plans, or subdivision approvals. Mature trees must be preserved or replaced at a ratio of one replacement tree per 2,000 square feet of removed canopy area.
Des Moines Tree Removal Mitigation Requires Replacement for Mature Trees
Some RestrictionsTree Replacement Requirements
Des Moines requires a tree removal and mitigation plan for any development activity under Chapter 42, Article X. No grading permit, site plan, or subdivision plat is approved until a plan is filed. Preserved trees must be protected during construction, and removed trees must be replaced.
Des Moines Tree Removal Permit and Replacement Mitigation
Heavy RestrictionsParkway Planting
Des Moines Forestry Division regulates planting, pruning, and removal of trees in the public parkway between sidewalk and curb; residents must obtain a permit and choose from an approved species list to plant or remove parkway trees.
Parkway and right-of-way tree planting rules
Some RestrictionsUrban Forest Equity
Des Moines targets equitable urban canopy expansion, prioritizing low-canopy neighborhoods such as Capitol East and parts of the south side, with the Climate Action Plan setting a 40% citywide canopy goal and Forestry partnering with nonprofits on planting drives.