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Tree Protection in Tulsa, OK (2026)

5 verified tree protection rules for Tulsa, Oklahoma, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Tree Removal Permits

Tulsa regulates tree removal through its zoning code and urban forestry program. Trees in the public right-of-way require city approval for removal. Development projects must comply with tree preservation and landscaping requirements. Private property trees are less regulated.

Tulsa Tree Removal Permit Rules

Some Restrictions

Heritage & Protected Trees

Tulsa does not have a formal heritage tree ordinance designating specific individual trees as protected landmarks. Mature trees on public property are managed by the Urban Forestry division. Oklahoma's Redbud is the state tree but does not have special municipal protection.

Tulsa Heritage & Protected Tree Rules

Few Restrictions

Tree Replacement Requirements

Tulsa requires tree replacement as a condition of development projects when existing trees are removed. The Zoning Code mandates landscaping including trees for new development and significant redevelopment. Street tree replacements are managed by Urban Forestry.

Tulsa Tree Replacement Requirements

Some Restrictions

Protected Tree Species

Tulsa Tree Code Title 42 identifies preferred and protected species for street tree plantings and parking-lot landscaping, generally favoring native oaks, elms, and other heat-tolerant species suited to the Cross Timbers ecoregion.

Tulsa Title 42 Protected Tree Species

Some Restrictions

Parkway Planting

Tulsa parkway and street-tree plantings require Urban Forester approval under Title 42. Property owners abutting parkways are responsible for maintenance, but species selection, placement, and removal need city permits.

Tulsa Parkway Tree Planting

Some Restrictions

Looking for Tulsa County county-wide rules?

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

Tree Protection in Tulsa County