Grand Rapids, MI Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Grand Rapids, 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
- Applies to
- Sites needing a LUDS permit
- Required document
- Tree and Root Protection Plan
- Removal allowed if
- Tree unhealthy or hazardous
- Root disturbance cap
- 33% of critical root zone
- Replacement basis
- Inch-for-inch caliper
Summary
Grand Rapids zoning requires a tree protection plan under the development permit process, and only allows removing a protected tree for specific reasons like poor health or a safety hazard.
A Plan illustrating tree protection and root protection zones, methods and details for protecting existing vegetation during construction shall be required as part of any site modifications under the Land Use and Development Services (LUDS) Permit. ... Tree removal may be permitted where...the City Forester or a recognized landscape professional...has determined the tree to be unhealthy; or a nuisance or threat to an existing structure, underground utility or to public health, safety or welfare exists.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 70).
Full Breakdown
Grand Rapids' zoning code treats existing healthy trees on a development site as protected trees. Any site modification requiring a Land Use and Development Services (LUDS) Permit must include a Tree and Root Protection Plan showing protection zones and construction barriers around trees slated for preservation. Removing a protected tree is only allowed administratively where the City Forester or a certified arborist finds it unhealthy, it threatens a structure or utility, its removal is required in the right-of-way under Chapter 42, or it's part of an approved thinning of a large contiguous tree grouping. Trees lost outside those conditions must be replaced inch-for-inch in caliper.
Violations & Fines
Removing or damaging a protected tree outside the allowed conditions is a zoning violation; the City can require mitigation and inch-for-inch caliper replacement, and can withhold site plan or LUDS approval until the site complies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a developer remove a protected tree in Grand Rapids?
What happens if a protected tree dies during construction?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Grand Rapids
Compare Grand Rapids to another location·View the Michigan landscaping rules overview
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Tree Removal & Heritage Trees in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Kent County handle tree removal & heritage trees.