Huntsville, AL Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Huntsville, AL, sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances, list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Key Facts
- Size trigger
- 6+ inches d.b.h.
- Replacement ratio
- Approximately equal numbers
- Permit cost
- Free, by phone
- Applies to
- Public land and easements only
- Max fine
- $500 per tree
Summary
Anyone who removes a public tree six inches or larger in diameter must replant new trees in approximately equal numbers, in a spot approved by the city forester, whether or not a permit was obtained first.
Replacement of trees removed by permit. Any person or agency removing trees, by permit, which are six inches or more in d.b.h. shall provide for the planting of new trees in approximately equal numbers and in appropriate locations mutually agreed upon by the city forester and the person obtaining the permit. Failure to obtain a permit when one would be required for removal of a tree shall not relieve responsibility for its replacement. The city forester shall coordinate planting of trees as needed to replace those removed during construction by any city agency.
(Ord. No. 04-45, § 7, 2-12-2004)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 30 Update 2).
Full Breakdown
Under Code of Ordinances Sec. 27-51(d), removing a tree six inches or more in diameter at breast height from city-owned land, a right-of-way, or a utility easement first requires a free phone permit from the city forester. The permit holder must then replace what came down with new trees in approximately equal numbers, placed where the forester and the permit holder mutually agree. The replacement duty isn't optional and isn't excused by skipping the permit step: the ordinance expressly says failing to get a permit "shall not relieve responsibility for its replacement." This applies to public land and easements only; trees on private land fall under the separate, less restrictive rule in Sec. 27-52.
Violations & Fines
Removing or damaging a covered public tree without authorization is a misdemeanor under Sec. 27-36, fined up to $500 per tree, with restitution in goods or labor possible on top of the replacement obligation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this apply to trees on my private property?
If I skip the permit, do I still have to replace the tree?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Huntsville
Compare Huntsville to another location·View the Alabama landscaping rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Tree Removal & Heritage Trees in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Madison County handle tree removal & heritage trees.