Tree Protection in New Orleans, LA (2026)
5 verified tree protection rules for New Orleans, Louisiana, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
New Orleans requires permits for removal of trees in the public right-of-way and certain large trees on private property. The city's Department of Parks and Parkways manages street trees. In historic districts, the HDLC may review tree removal for landscape changes visible from the street.
New Orleans Tree Removal Permit Rules
Heavy RestrictionsHeritage & Protected Trees
New Orleans has strong protections for heritage and significant trees, particularly its iconic live oaks. The city's tree ordinance provides enhanced protection for mature trees of certain species and sizes. The Urban Forestry program works to preserve the city's historically significant tree canopy.
New Orleans Heritage & Protected Tree Rules
Heavy RestrictionsTree Replacement Requirements
New Orleans requires replacement of removed public trees and may require replacement for large private trees removed during development. The city's tree replacement ratio may require multiple replacement trees for each tree removed, especially for large or heritage trees.
New Orleans Tree Replacement Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsProtected Tree Species
Chapter 82 of the City Code protects designated species including live oak (Quercus virginiana), bald cypress, and other heritage species. Removing or damaging a protected tree on public property or right-of-way without a permit from Parks and Parkways is prohibited.
Protected Tree Species: Live Oak and Cypress
Heavy RestrictionsParkway Planting
All planting in public rights-of-way, neutral grounds, and parks requires a permit from the Department of Parks and Parkways under Chapter 82. The City maintains an approved species list adapted to New Orleans's hot, humid, flood-prone soils.