Tree removal permit rules in Genesee County, MI — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Genesee County sets no countywide tree-removal permit for private property. Whether you need a permit depends on your city or township ordinance. Removing trees on public land, parks, or the right-of-way always needs local approval.
Michigan has no statewide private-tree-removal permit, and Genesee County itself does not require one for trees on your own land. Some Michigan municipalities (mostly larger cities) have tree-preservation ordinances requiring a permit or replacement for landmark or large trees, but most Genesee townships do not. Trees in a park, on public land, or in the road right-of-way are protected and require permission from the municipality or the Genesee County Road Commission. If your property is in a platted subdivision or has a landscape/drainage easement, deed restrictions or the Drain Commissioner's rules may still apply. Always check your specific city or township before removing large or boundary trees.
No county penalty for lawful private removal. Removing a protected public or right-of-way tree can bring municipal fines plus the assessed replacement value of the tree.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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See how Genesee County's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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