Reno, NV Invasive Plant Rules: Prohibited Species (2026)
Key Facts
- Banned citywide
- Elm (genus Ulmus), any location
- Banned on public property
- Poplar, cottonwood, aspen, and willow
- Governing section
- Reno Municipal Code § 8.32.080
- Penalty
- Misdemeanor plus cost of tree loss
- Exception
- Riparian planting along the Truckee River
Summary
Reno Municipal Code bans planting genus Ulmus (elm) anywhere in the city, and genus Populus (poplar, cottonwood, aspen) or Salix (willow) trees along any street, parkway, or public property, unless the urban forester grants a riparian exception.
(2)Plant any and all species of genus Ulmus (elm) anywhere in the city.(3)Plant any and all species of genus Populus (poplar/cottonwood/aspen) tree, or genus Salix (willow) tree on or along any street, parkway or other public property. Special exception may be allowed by the urban forester for the purpose of maintaining riparian vegetation and habitat along the Truckee River or other natural riparian areas. (Code 1966, § 11.56.080; Ord. No. 3079, § 1, 5-9-83; Ord. No. 4126, § 1, 7-9-91; Ord. No. 4196, § 1, 3-10-92; Ord. No. 4917, § 1, 10-13-98)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Administrative Code: Supplement 64 | Land Development Code: Supplement 5 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Section 8.32.080 of the Reno Municipal Code makes it unlawful to plant elm anywhere in the city, and unlawful to plant poplar, cottonwood, aspen, or willow along streets, parkways, or other public property, because these species conflict with sidewalks, utility lines, and sewer infrastructure or carry disease risk. The urban forester may grant a special exception for poplar or willow planted to maintain riparian vegetation and habitat along the Truckee River or other natural riparian areas. Fruit, nut, or seed-bearing trees also need a city permit before planting on public property. Violating this chapter is a misdemeanor under Section 8.32.180, and violators must compensate the city for any resulting damage or loss of a tree.
Violations & Fines
Planting a banned species is a misdemeanor under Reno Municipal Code § 8.32.180; violators must compensate the city for any resulting tree damage or loss, and the urban forester may order removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant an elm tree in Reno?
Are poplar and willow trees banned in Reno?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Reno
Compare Reno to another location·View the Nevada invasive plant rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.