Tree Protection in Jackson County, MS (2026)

3 rules for unincorporated Jackson County, Mississippi.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Jackson County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply — see the city list below.

Tree Removal Permits

Ocean Springs has the strictest tree protection in Jackson County requiring permits for removal of trees 6 inches DBH or larger under Code §86. Pascagoula and Gautier require permits for larger heritage oaks. Miss. Code §95-5-10 gives triple damages for unauthorized tree cutting. Gulf Coast oak canopy is a priority.

tree-protection/tree-removal-permits

Some Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Heritage & Protected Trees

Ocean Springs and Gautier designate heritage live oaks with enhanced protection under local ordinances. Gautier Oak Alliance inventoried over 400 specimens. The Live Oak Society (Louisiana-based) registers major Gulf Coast trees. Mississippi has no statewide heritage tree program but Miss. Code §95-5-10 treble damages apply.

tree-protection/heritage-trees

Heavy Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Tree Replacement Requirements

Ocean Springs requires 2:1 replacement for permitted tree removals and 3:1 for heritage trees under Code §86. Pascagoula requires 1:1 to 2:1 depending on size. Fee-in-lieu goes to city tree funds. Post-Katrina replanting programs from Land Trust for MS Coastal Plain supply heritage replacements.

tree-protection/tree-replacement

Some Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

All Jackson County ordinances

See every category we cover for Jackson County — parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.

Jackson County Ordinance Hub →