Tree removal permit rules in Columbia, TN — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Tennessee's Heritage Tree program identifies historically significant trees but leaves most private tree removal regulation to local governments.
Tennessee operates a Heritage Tree program through the Department of Agriculture's Division of Forestry, recognizing trees of exceptional age, size, or historical significance under TCA Title 11, Chapter 4. State law does not generally regulate routine tree removal on private property; landowners retain broad rights to remove trees on their land. The Tennessee Forestry Commission administers state forest land and assists private landowners but cannot prohibit private removals. Roadside tree work along state rights-of-way requires Tennessee Department of Transportation coordination. The Tennessee Right-to-Farm Act also protects agricultural and timber operations from local nuisance restrictions on tree management.
Unauthorized removal in state rights-of-way or state forest carries fines under TDOT and TDA enforcement; private removals generally have no state penalty.
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