Landscaping Rules in New York, NY (2026)
4 verified landscaping rules for New York, New York, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal & Heritage Trees
NYC Parks Department regulates all street trees and trees in parks. Removing or damaging a city street tree without authorization violates Admin Code §18-129 and carries fines up to $15,000 per tree. Private property trees over 6 inches DBH in certain zones require Parks Department permits under Local Law 3 of 2010.
New York City Tree Removal Regulations
Heavy RestrictionsRainwater Harvesting
NYC encourages rainwater harvesting through DEP's Green Infrastructure Plan and offers incentives through the Stormwater Management Program. No permit is required for residential rain barrels. The city distributes free rain barrels through community programs and GrowNYC.
New York City Rainwater Harvesting Regulations
Few RestrictionsNative Plants
NYC does not mandate native plant use on private property but strongly encourages it through DEP's green infrastructure programs, MillionTreesNYC successor programs, and GreeNYC initiatives. NYC Parks Department requires native species for street tree plantings and park restorations.
New York City Native Plant Regulations
Few RestrictionsArtificial Turf
NYC does not specifically regulate artificial turf installation on private property. No permit is required for replacing a lawn with synthetic turf. However, stormwater management requirements may apply for larger installations, and some community districts have raised concerns about heat island effects.
New York City Artificial Turf Regulations
Few RestrictionsLooking for New York County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement New York city rules.
Landscaping Rules in New York County →