Wausau, WI Invasive Plant Rules: Tree-of-Heaven Removal (2026)
Key Facts
- Species
- Ailanthus altissima, tree of heaven
- Status
- Prohibited
- Reason listed
- invasive non-native
- Approved alternatives
- serviceberry, hornbeam, eastern redbud
- Applies to
- landscaping plans under city site plan review
- Governing table
- Figure 23.08.40c
Summary
Ailanthus altissima, the tree of heaven, is listed 'Prohibited' on Wausau's zoning code landscaping plant table because it is an invasive non-native species. Any landscaping plan the City reviews under section 23.08.20 must leave the tree of heaven out and use an approved substitute instead.
Classification Common Name Scientific Name Prohibited2or Use Sparingly1 Reason Alternative ... Medium Deciduous Tree Ailanthus, Tree of Heaven Ailanthus altissima Prohibited Invasive non-native Serviceberry ... 2 " Prohibited Species" shall not be included as part of any landscaping plan that is subject to City review per section 23.08.20. The purpose of this provision is to limit the planting of species that are invasive, have invasive tendencies, or that may perpetuate or spread disease.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 12 Update 2).
Full Breakdown
20, in order to limit the planting of species that are invasive, have invasive tendencies, or that may perpetuate or spread disease. ), and lists American Hornbeam (or Musclewood) and Eastern Redbud alongside it in the same alternatives grouping for landscapers designing under the medium deciduous tree category. Because the prohibition sits inside the landscaping requirements article rather than a nuisance or forestry chapter, it reaches new landscaping plans reviewed through site plan review, not existing trees already growing on private land outside that review process.
Violations & Fines
A landscaping plan submitted for City review that specifies the tree of heaven does not conform to section 23.08.40, and the Zoning Administrator can reject the plan or require the applicant to swap in an approved alternative, such as Serviceberry, American Hornbeam, or Eastern Redbud, before the plan or associated permit moves forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tree of heaven banned in Wausau?
What can I plant instead of a tree of heaven in Wausau?
Does the tree of heaven ban apply to trees already on my property?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Wausau
Compare Wausau to another location·View the Wisconsin invasive plant rules overview
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