Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Dearborn vs Detroit
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Dearborn, MI and Detroit, MI?
Dearborn has fewer restrictions than Detroit.
Dearborn, MI
Wayne County
Private tree removal on residential property generally does not require a permit in Dearborn, but trees in the public right of way or protected landmark trees need city approval before removal.
View full Dearborn rules →Detroit, MI
Wayne County
Street trees and trees in the public right-of-way in Detroit are city-owned and may only be removed by the General Services Department Forestry Division. Trees on private property are generally the owner's responsibility, supported by the Dead, Dangerous, and Diseased Tree Program.
View full Detroit rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dearborn | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Private trees | No permit typically | - |
| Right of way trees | City approval required | - |
| Commercial sites | Follow site plan | - |
| Miss Dig | Required before stump removal | - |
| Replacement | Not required for private | - |
| Street/ROW Trees | - | City-owned (no resident removal) |
| Forestry Contact | - | (313) 871-5461 |
| Private-Tree Help | - | Dead, Dangerous & Diseased Program |
| Commercial Rules | - | Chapter 50 Art. XIV Div. 2 |
| Service Request | - | Improve Detroit / 311 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dearborn FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down my backyard tree in Dearborn?
Generally no for private trees on single-family residential lots, unless the tree is a condition of prior site plan approval.
Can I remove a tree in front of my house near the curb?
Trees between the sidewalk and street are usually city trees and require DPW authorization before removal.
Detroit FAQ
Can I cut down a tree on my Detroit property?
Private-property trees are generally the owner's responsibility, but city-owned street trees may not be removed by residents. For dead, dangerous, or diseased private trees, the city's DDD program may handle removal at no cost.
How do I report a city tree that needs removal?
Use Improve Detroit (311) to submit a forestry request, or call the General Services Department Forestry Division at (313) 871-5461. City crews handle all street, park, and right-of-way tree work.
Do I need a permit to remove a yard tree?
Detroit does not codify a citywide private-tree removal permit, but commercial, multifamily, and parking-lot parcels are subject to landscape and screening requirements in Chapter 50 Article XIV Division 2.
Compare other topics
See how Dearborn and Detroit 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