Tree Protection in Louisville, KY (2026)
4 verified tree protection rules for Louisville, Kentucky, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
Louisville Metro requires tree removal permits under LMCO Chapter 102 (Tree Ordinance). A permit from the Division of Urban Forestry is required before removing any tree on public property or within the public right-of-way. On private property, permits are required for removal of protected trees (those 10 inches DBH or greater in certain areas). The ordinance applies to development sites and requires tree preservation plans.
Louisville Tree Removal Permit Rules
Heavy RestrictionsHeritage & Protected Trees
Louisville Metro protects heritage trees under LMCO Chapter 102. Heritage trees are defined as trees of exceptional size, age, species rarity, or historical significance. These trees receive the highest level of protection and cannot be removed without specific approval from the Tree Advisory Committee. The Louisville Metro Tree Advisory Committee maintains a heritage tree registry.
Louisville Heritage & Protected Tree Rules
Heavy RestrictionsTree Replacement Requirements
Louisville Metro requires tree replacement for protected trees removed during development under LMCO Chapter 102. Replacement ratios depend on the size and species of the removed tree. The Land Development Code also requires canopy coverage for new development projects. Payment into the Tree Fund is an alternative when on-site replacement is not feasible.
Louisville Tree Replacement Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsUrban Forest Equity
The Louisville Tree Canopy Assessment found canopy coverage uneven across neighborhoods, with west and south Louisville especially under-canopied. Metro's tree program targets equitable canopy expansion toward a 45% community goal through plantings, LDC standards, and partnerships.
Urban Forest Equity and the 45% Canopy Goal
Some RestrictionsLooking for Jefferson County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Louisville city rules.
Tree Protection in Jefferson County →