Milwaukee, WI Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Milwaukee, WI, sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances, list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Key Facts
- Non-native replacement ratio
- 1-to-1 diameter
- Native replacement ratio
- 2-to-1 diameter
- Protected tree size
- 6+ inches DBH
- Geographic scope
- River greenway overlay zone only
- Warranty on new plantings
- One year
Summary
Removing a protected tree from Milwaukee's River greenway overlay zone requires a conservation permit and replacement: non-native trees 1-to-1 on a diameter-equivalent basis, native trees at a 2-to-1 diameter ratio, with Wisconsin-native nursery stock.
Non-native trees in excess of 6 inches in diameter at breast height which are removed shall be replaced on a diameter-equivalent basis during the designated planting season with Wisconsin-native, nursery-grown trees conforming to American National Standard Institute (ANSI) Z60.1... Native trees in excess of 6 inches in diameter at breast height which are removed shall be replaced on a 2-to-one diameter ratio during the designated planting season with Wisconsin-native, nursery-grown trees... All replacement trees shall be planted within the primary environmental corridor.
Full Breakdown
Under Milwaukee's Tree Maintenance and Conservation Permit, removing or disturbing a tree over 6 inches in diameter at breast height within the primary environmental corridor of the Milwaukee River greenway site plan review overlay zone triggers mandatory replacement. Non-native trees are replaced on a diameter-equivalent (1-to-1) basis; native trees at a 2-to-1 diameter ratio: for example, four 3-inch native trees must be planted for every 6-inch native tree removed. Replacement stock must be Wisconsin-native, nursery-grown, meet ANSI Z60.1 nursery standards, be planted in the designated fall or spring window, and stay within the corridor. The commissioner of public works administers permits and enforces a one-year warranty on new plantings.
Violations & Fines
Removing, damaging, topping or disturbing a protected tree in the corridor without a permit, or failing to install required replacement trees, is a prohibited act the commissioner can enforce with a notice of violation or a stop-work order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this replacement rule apply citywide in Milwaukee?
Can any tree be removed without a permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Milwaukee
Compare Milwaukee to another location·View the Wisconsin landscaping rules overview
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Tree Removal & Heritage Trees in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Milwaukee County handle tree removal & heritage trees.