Lima, OH Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Lima, 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
- Private healthy tree
- No permit required
- Right-of-way/street trees
- City Engineer permit, Ch. 1028
- Permit cost
- No charge
- Dead/diseased private tree
- Remove in 60 days
- Authority
- City Engineer / Code Official
Summary
No permit is needed to remove a healthy tree on your own private property. Planting or removing trees in the public right-of-way requires City Engineer approval under Chapter 1028, and dead/diseased trees must be removed on notice.
No shade or ornamental tree, plant or shrub shall be planted in any street, public highway, boulevard, park or other public ground until the City Engineer or his authorized agent first approves the kind, size, spacing and variety thereof, designates the location therefor and grants a permit.
Full Breakdown
Lima regulates trees on public ground separately from private yards. Chapter 1028 (Trees, Shrubs and Plants) bars planting any shade or ornamental tree, plant, or shrub in a street, boulevard, park, or other public ground until the City Engineer approves the kind, size, spacing, and location and grants a permit (issued at no charge). This same right-of-way control governs removal of street trees. On private property, no permit is required to remove your own tree, but Property Maintenance Code Section 1806.18 declares damaged, dead, diseased, or insect-infested trees a nuisance requiring removal within 60 days of a Code Official's notice.
Violations & Fines
Unauthorized planting or work on right-of-way trees violates Chapter 1028; ignoring a Section 1806.18 removal notice for a hazardous tree lets the City abate and recover costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Lima?
Who controls street trees in Lima?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lima
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