Tree Protection in Philadelphia, PA (2026)
5 verified tree protection rules for Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
Phila. Code §14-705 requires a landscape and tree preservation plan for development on lots over 5,000 sq ft. L&I will not issue a zoning permit for heritage tree removal or tree replacement until the Planning Commission approves the plan. The plan must be prepared by a qualified professional and meet all applicable requirements.
Philadelphia Tree Removal Permit Rules
Heavy RestrictionsHeritage & Protected Trees
Phila. Code §14-705(1)(f) protects heritage trees, defined as listed species with 24+ inch diameter at breast height (DBH). Heritage trees cannot be removed unless the applicant meets qualifying conditions or obtains a Zoning Board special exception. Qualifying conditions include a certified arborist's finding of dead/diseased/hazardous or Streets Department interference determination.
Philadelphia Heritage & Protected Tree Rules
Heavy RestrictionsTree Replacement Requirements
Phila. Code §14-705(1)(g) mandates tree replacement when trees are removed during development. All replaced trees must be installed within 2 years of building permit issuance or before the certificate of occupancy is issued, whichever is later. Failure to install, replace, or maintain required trees is a zoning code violation.
Philadelphia Tree Replacement Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsTree Ordinances
Philadelphia's tree protection is governed by the Philadelphia Code Title 17 (Parks and Recreation) and enforced by Philadelphia Parks and Recreation's TreePhilly program. Street trees are protected and may not be removed without a permit from the city. The city also regulates tree removal during development through the Earth Disturbance and Stormwater Management regulations.
Philadelphia Tree Protection Ordinances
Heavy RestrictionsProtected Tree Species
Philadelphia Code section 9-208 makes Philadelphia Parks and Recreation the legal custodian of all street trees and protected canopy in the public right-of-way. Pruning, removal, or planting requires a free Street Tree Permit, and damage triggers replacement valuation under the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers formula.
Philadelphia Code 9-208 protects street trees citywide
Heavy RestrictionsLooking for Philadelphia County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Philadelphia city rules.
Tree Protection in Philadelphia County →