Tree Protection in New York, NY (2026)
2 verified tree protection rules for New York, New York, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Heritage & Protected Trees
New York City has no separate "heritage tree" program: the Landmarks Preservation Commission designates individual trees and landscape features as scenic landmarks under Administrative Code § 25-303. Designation is limited to city-owned property and triggers a maintenance duty and a public review requirement before any alteration.
NYC Scenic Landmark Trees Need LPC Designation
Significant RestrictionsNew York City Administrative Code § 25-303
(3) to designate and, in order to effectuate the purposes of this chapter, to make supplemental designations as additions to a list of scenic landmarks, located on property owned by the city, which are identified by a description setting forth the general characteristics and location thereof... The commission may, after a public hearing, whether at the time it designates a scenic landmark or at...
Parkway Planting
Before Parks can dig up any street, including the parkway strip between curb and sidewalk, to plant a tree, it must get the transportation commissioner's written approval, and the planting can't block street use or hit underground utility lines.
NYC Street Tree Planting Needs DOT Approval
Some RestrictionsNew York City Administrative Code § 18-106
In performing the duties required by sections 18-104 and 18-105 of this title, the commissioner shall not make openings or excavations in any street for the purpose of planting or cultivating trees, without having first obtained the written approval of the commissioner of transportation nor shall any tree be so planted as to permanently interfere with the ordinary usage of the street, nor shall...