Tree Protection in Novi, MI (2026)
2 verified tree protection rules for Novi, Michigan, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Heritage & Protected Trees
In the City of Novi, the planning commission may designate any tree historic or specimen under City Code § 37-6.5, based on documented cultural significance or a species-specific minimum caliper (24 inches DBH for oak, maple, ash and hickory). Once designated, removing or damaging the tree without prior planning commission approval is unlawful and can trigger replacement and civil penalties.
Novi Historic and Specimen Tree Rules
Significant RestrictionsNovi City Code § 37-6.5
(a)A person may nominate a tree within the city for designation as a historic or specimen tree based upon documented historical or cultural associations. Such a nomination shall be made upon that form provided by the community development department. A person may nominate a tree within the city as a specimen tree based upon its size and good health. ... (f)The removal of any designated specimen...
Parkway Planting
Novi requires developers to plant and bond street trees before final occupancy. Under City Code Section 26.5-40, subdivision and site plan applicants must post a $400-per-tree performance guarantee, and the city withholds a final certificate of occupancy until every required street tree is planted, inspected, and accepted.
Novi Street Tree Planting and Bond Rules
Some RestrictionsNovi City Code § 26.5-40
The performance guarantee required under sections 26.5-5 and 26.5-7 of this chapter shall include guarantee amounts to secure the planting of required street trees, at a rate of four hundred dollars ($400.00) per tree. ... There will be no issuance of any temporary certificate of occupancy in the development until this guarantee is in place. A final certificate of occupancy will not be granted ...
Looking for Oakland County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Novi city rules.
Tree Protection in Oakland County →