Lakewood, OH Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Lakewood, OH, sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances, list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Key Facts
- Code Section
- LCO 1775.02
- ROW Height Limit
- 3 feet where it blocks visibility
- Public Tree Removal
- City removes hazardous/dead trees
- Related
- Sight triangles - LCO 1775.03
Summary
Lakewood Section 1775.02 prohibits any vegetation taller than three feet in the public right-of-way that impedes visibility for motorists and pedestrians; the City also removes hazardous or dead public trees.
All vegetation regardless of type that has a height greater than 3'0" and impedes visibility of a right-of-way for motorists and pedestrians is prohibited.
Full Breakdown
Lakewood Codified Ordinances Section 1775.02 (Height of Vegetation and Rights-of-Way) provides that all vegetation, regardless of type, that has a height greater than three feet (3'0") and impedes visibility of a right-of-way for motorists and pedestrians is prohibited, requiring property owners to keep corner and frontage plantings trimmed for sight lines. For public trees, the City of Lakewood Forestry Unit removes a tree only when it is diseased, dead, or in decline and poses a danger to the public, including stump removal; residents do not remove tree-lawn or other public trees themselves. The right-of-way visibility rule works alongside the Section 1775.03 sight-triangle setbacks for managed natural landscapes.
Violations & Fines
Vegetation over three feet that blocks right-of-way visibility must be cut back; failure after notice can be abated by the City under Chapter 1775 with costs charged to the owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall can plants be near the street or sidewalk in Lakewood?
Can I remove a dead street tree on my tree lawn?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lakewood
Compare Lakewood to another location·View the Ohio landscaping rules overview
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Tree Removal & Heritage Trees in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Cuyahoga County handle tree removal & heritage trees.