Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Columbus vs Westerville
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Columbus, OH and Westerville, OH?
Columbus and Westerville have similar restriction levels.
Columbus, OH
Franklin County
Street tree removal in Franklin County municipalities requires a city permit and often tree-replacement fees. Removal of private trees on residential lots is generally permit-free except in designated conservation districts, ravine overlay zones, and historic districts. Columbus protects heritage trees under Code 911.11.
View full Columbus rules →Westerville, OH
Franklin County
Westerville requires a permit to remove trees in the public right-of-way. Private property tree removal does not require a permit unless the tree is a protected heritage tree or in a conservation easement.
View full Westerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Columbus | Westerville |
|---|---|---|
| Street Trees | Permit required | - |
| Private Trees | Generally no permit | - |
| Historic Districts | Permit required | - |
| Ravine Overlay | Protected | - |
| Heritage Trees | Columbus 911.11 | - |
| Public Tree | - | Permit required |
| Private Tree | - | Generally no permit |
| Replacement | - | Required for public |
| Fee | - | No fee for permit |
| Authority | - | Urban Forestry |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Columbus FAQ
Who enforces this in Franklin County?
Franklin County code enforcement at (614) 525-3322 handles most complaints.
Who enforces this in Franklin County?
Franklin County code enforcement at (614) 525-3322 handles most complaints.
Westerville FAQ
Can I cut down a tree in my Westerville backyard?
Yes, private trees on your property generally do not require a permit unless in a conservation area or subdivision landscaping plan.
Who enforces this in Westerville?
Westerville code enforcement at (614) 901-6400 handles complaints.
Compare other topics
See how Columbus and Westerville compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool