Tree Protection in Lexington, KY (2026)
6 verified tree protection rules for Lexington, Kentucky, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
Lexington regulates tree removal on public property and in development projects through the LFUCG Division of Urban Forestry. Trees on public land cannot be removed without city authorization. For private development projects, the Zoning Ordinance requires tree preservation plans showing existing trees and proposed removal. Removal of trees in the public right-of-way requires a permit from the Division of Urban Forestry.
Lexington Tree Removal Permit Rules
Some RestrictionsHeritage & Protected Trees
Lexington recognizes and protects significant trees through its urban forestry program. Trees that meet criteria for age, size, species rarity, or historical significance may receive heritage or champion tree designation. Heritage trees on public property receive priority protection and maintenance. The city's tree canopy goals encourage preservation of mature trees in development planning. Damaging designated heritage trees may result in penalties.
Lexington Heritage & Protected Tree Rules
Some RestrictionsTree Replacement Requirements
Lexington's development regulations require tree replacement when significant trees are removed during construction. The Zoning Ordinance sets tree canopy requirements for new development and redevelopment projects. Developers must plant replacement trees at specified ratios based on the size and species of trees removed. The Division of Urban Forestry reviews and approves tree replacement plans as part of the development review process.
Lexington Tree Replacement Requirements
Some RestrictionsTree Ordinances
Lexington has a tree protection ordinance administered by the LFUCG Division of Environmental Services and the Urban County Council. The ordinance requires tree preservation plans for development projects over 1 acre, regulates removal of heritage trees on public property, and mandates street tree planting in new subdivisions. Private property owners generally may remove trees on their own lots without a permit, except in protected environmentally sensitive areas, historic districts, or when trees are located within public rights-of-way.
Tree Ordinances in Lexington
Some RestrictionsProtected Tree Species
Lexington's Tree Preservation Ordinance, Chapter 24 Section 24-3, identifies protected tree species and size thresholds requiring preservation or replacement during development and certain residential alterations.
Protected Tree Species
Heavy RestrictionsUrban Forest Equity
Imagine Lexington and Empower Lexington direct LFUCG Urban Forestry to prioritize tree planting in lower-canopy neighborhoods, addressing heat exposure and air quality gaps across Fayette County.