Tree removal permit rules in Madison, WI — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Removal of any public or terrace tree in Madison requires a permit from the City Forester under MGO 10.10. Private tree removal generally does not require a permit but is regulated in landmark tree and shoreland zones.
MGO 10.10 gives the City Forester exclusive authority over removal of trees in terraces, parks, and other public lands. Residents must not cut, top, or remove terrace trees even if the tree is dying or diseased - Urban Forestry evaluates and performs removals at no charge to the abutting owner. Emerald ash borer removals have been prioritized and tracked publicly. For private trees, Madison does not generally require a removal permit on standard lots, but trees in Shoreland-Wetland Overlay Districts (MGO 28.099) and Landmark-designated heritage trees require Plan Commission approval. Tree work contractors operating in the city must register with Urban Forestry and carry insurance. Improper removal of a public tree carries valuation-based restitution using the Trunk Formula Method, which can exceed 5,000 dollars for a mature tree.
Unauthorized removal of public trees results in MGO 10.10 forfeitures up to 1,000 dollars plus restitution equal to appraised tree value.
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See how Madison's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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