Tree Removal Permits: Albuquerque vs Tijeras
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Albuquerque, NM and Tijeras, NM?
Albuquerque and Tijeras have similar restriction levels.
Albuquerque, NM
Bernalillo County
Albuquerque regulates tree removal on public property and within rights-of-way through the Parks and Recreation Department. The city's Urban Forest Management program oversees street trees and park trees. Private property tree removal is generally not restricted unless trees are in designated overlay zones or subject to landscape requirements under the IDO.
View full Albuquerque rules →Tijeras, NM
Bernalillo County
Bernalillo County has no general private-property tree removal permit. Albuquerque ROA §6-6 protects street trees and park trees. Cottonwoods in the Rio Grande Bosque and on Open Space are protected. Private yard tree removal is generally unregulated.
View full Tijeras rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Albuquerque | Tijeras |
|---|---|---|
| Public Tree Removal | City authorization required | - |
| Private Tree Removal | Generally not restricted | - |
| Management | Urban Forestry Division | - |
| Landscape Plans | IDO requires preservation in developments | - |
| Bosque Trees | Protected under conservation rules | Federal/state protected |
| Private Yard | - | No permit typically required |
| Street Trees | - | City Forester permission |
| Code | - | ROA §6-6 |
| Solar Easement | - | NMSA §47-3-6 may limit |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Albuquerque FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property in Albuquerque?
Generally no, private property tree removal does not require a permit. However, if the tree was part of an approved landscape plan or is in a conservation area, replacement may be required. You may not remove street trees without city approval.
Who maintains street trees in Albuquerque?
The Urban Forestry Division manages city street trees. Property owners are responsible for maintaining trees in the right-of-way adjacent to their property but must get city approval before removing them.
Tijeras FAQ
Can I remove a large cottonwood from my backyard?
Generally yes if it's on private property and not in an MRGCD easement or Bosque area. However, confirm the tree is not in a dedicated easement first.
What about the tree in the sidewalk strip?
That's a street tree in the public right-of-way. Contact the ABQ City Forester at 311; removal requires permission and typically a replacement.
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