Tree Trimming: Columbus vs Westerville
How do tree trimming rules compare between Columbus, OH and Westerville, OH?
Columbus and Westerville have similar restriction levels.
Columbus, OH
Franklin County
Tree trimming in Franklin County is regulated at the municipal level. Columbus Recreation and Parks Urban Forestry controls street trees under Columbus City Code 911; homeowners may trim private trees but need a permit to touch any tree in the public right-of-way. AEP Ohio handles utility line clearance separately.
View full Columbus rules →Westerville, OH
Franklin County
Westerville requires property owners to trim trees overhanging streets and sidewalks to maintain 8-foot clearance over walks and 14-foot clearance over streets under Codified Ordinance 911. City forestry manages public right-of-way trees.
View full Westerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Columbus | Westerville |
|---|---|---|
| Columbus Street Trees | Permit required | - |
| Private Trees | Owner may trim | - |
| Overhanging | Trim to property line | - |
| Utility Lines | AEP handles | - |
| Urban Forest | 115,000 street trees | - |
| Sidewalk Clearance | - | 8 feet |
| Street Clearance | - | 14 feet |
| Authority | - | Parks and Urban Forestry |
| Tree City USA | - | Designated |
| Public Trees | - | City maintains |
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
Who trims the tree in the Westerville tree lawn?
The city maintains public right-of-way trees. Private trees overhanging the street are the owner's responsibility.
Who enforces this in Westerville?
Westerville code enforcement at (614) 901-6400 handles complaints.
Compare other topics
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