Dearborn, MI Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Dearborn, MI, sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances, list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Key Facts
- Permit fee
- $125 non-refundable
- DBH threshold
- 12 inches or greater
- Review agency
- Dept. of Economic Development
- Appeal window
- 21 days after denial
- Stump removal
- 6 inches below grade, 90 days
Summary
Property owners in Dearborn must obtain a $125 tree removal permit from the Department of Economic Development before removing or relocating any tree 12 inches DBH or greater, subject to district-specific review standards and a 21-day appeal window.
The removal or relocation of any tree with a DBH of 12 inches or greater on any property without first obtaining a tree removal permit shall be prohibited. A property owner may remove a tree located on their property subject to all applicable requirements of this article, including but not limited to the permit requirement of this section.
(b) Fee. A non-refundable fee of $125.00 shall be due at the time a permit application is submitted.
(c) Application. Permits shall be obtained by submitting a tree removal permit application in a form provided by the Department of Economic Development, which will include the following information:
(1) The owner and/or occupant of the land on which the tree is located.
(2) A description of each tree to be removed, including diseased or damaged trees, and the location thereof.
(d) Review procedures. The Department of Economic Development shall review the applications for tree removal permits and may impose such conditions on the manner and extent of the proposed activity as are necessary to ensure that the activity or use will be conducted in such a manner as will cause the least possible damage, encroachment or interference with natural resources and natural processes within the affected area.
(e) Review standards. The following standards shall be used to review the applications for tree removal permits:
(1) In residential zoning districts, the tree has a DBH of 16 inches or greater.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-07: Code: Updated through: July 22, 2026 | Zoning: Updated through: July 22, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Under Code of Ordinances § 12-1104, removing or relocating a tree with a diameter at breast height of 12 inches or more without a permit is prohibited. Owners apply to the Department of Economic Development with a $125 non-refundable fee, describing each tree and its location. Reviewers may impose conditions to minimize damage to natural resources; in residential districts, trees of 16 inches DBH or greater receive heightened review, and removal to clear space for a structure is allowed only where no reasonable alternative location exists. Stumps must be cut six inches below grade within 90 days, and permit denials can be appealed to the department director within 21 days.
Violations & Fines
Removing a tree 12+ inches DBH without a permit is a civil infraction: $250 fine plus costs, $500 for a repeat within 6 months, and a misdemeanor (up to 93 days jail) on a third violation within 12 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big does a tree have to be before I need a permit to remove it in Dearborn?
Can I remove a hazardous tree in an emergency without a permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dearborn
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Tree Removal & Heritage Trees in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Wayne County handle tree removal & heritage trees.