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Tree Protection in Omaha, NE (2026)

6 verified tree protection rules for Omaha, Nebraska, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Tree Removal Permits

Omaha regulates tree removal on public property and rights-of-way through OMC Chapter 37 (Trees and Vegetation). Removal of city-owned street trees requires approval from the Urban Forestry section. Trees on private property are less regulated but may be subject to zoning landscape requirements.

Omaha Tree Removal Permit Rules

Some Restrictions

Heritage & Protected Trees

Omaha does not have a formal heritage or landmark tree ordinance protecting individual trees based on size, species, or historical significance. Tree protection focuses on city-owned street trees under OMC Chapter 37 rather than designating private trees as heritage resources.

Omaha Heritage & Protected Tree Rules

Few Restrictions

Tree Replacement Requirements

Omaha requires tree replacement for city street trees removed for construction or development. The Urban Forestry section manages the city's tree planting and replacement program. New development must plant trees per the zoning code's landscaping requirements.

Omaha Tree Replacement Requirements

Some Restrictions

Tree Ordinances

Omaha regulates street trees and public-right-of-way trees through the Forestry Division, protects heritage and landmark trees, and manages emerald ash borer response.

Tree Ordinances in Omaha

Some Restrictions

Parkway Planting

The parkway strip between sidewalk and curb is city right-of-way managed by the Forestry Division under Chapter 53. Residents may request approved species, but planting, removing, or topping a parkway tree without a permit is prohibited.

Street tree planting in Omaha parkways

Some Restrictions

Urban Forest Equity

Omaha's Climate Action Plan and Forestry Division target underserved neighborhoods, particularly North and East Omaha, for expanded tree planting to address canopy gaps, urban heat exposure, and air-quality disparities.

Equitable tree canopy in Omaha

Few Restrictions

Looking for Douglas County county-wide rules?

County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Omaha city rules.

Tree Protection in Douglas County