Tree Protection in Philadelphia, PA (2026)
2 verified tree protection rules for Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Protected Tree Species
Philadelphia's Zoning Code defines a "Heritage Tree" as any tree with a diameter breast height of 24 inches or more that belongs to a species on the Department of Parks and Recreation's Heritage Tree Species List. Once a tree meets both tests, Title 14 requires it be logged on every landscape and tree plan and bars removal unless the applicant meets narrow standards or wins a special exception.
Philadelphia Protects Heritage Trees by Size and Species
Significant RestrictionsPhiladelphia Code § 14-203(145); § 14-705(1)(f)
(145) Heritage Tree. Any tree that has a diameter breast height of 24 in. or more and is of a species listed on the Department of Parks and Recreation Heritage Tree Species List. ... (f) Preservation of Heritage Trees. The location, DBH, and species of all existing trees shall be included in a landscape and tree plan. Heritage trees may not be removed from any property unless the applicant meet...
Parkway Planting
New developments over 5,000 sq. ft. must plant one street tree every 35 feet of frontage, spaced at least 15 feet apart, under Philadelphia's zoning code.
Philadelphia Street Tree Planting Standards
Some RestrictionsPhiladelphia Code § 14-705(2)(c)(.2)(.a)
At least one street tree per 35 ft. of linear frontage shall be provided. Street trees may be placed at regular or irregular intervals, provided that there is at least 15 ft. of space between tree trunks. Where any of these standards conflict with the regulations of the Streets Department or the Department of Parks and Recreation, the least restrictive regulation shall govern.