Tree removal permit rules in Orleans Parish, LA — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
You cannot remove a tree on New Orleans city property, a neutral ground, or the right-of-way without prior approval from the Department of Parks and Parkways. Only approved licensed arborists may do the work. Trees fully on your private land are generally not permitted-controlled.
Under City Code Sec. 106-212, no person may remove, cut, disturb, or interfere with any city tree without prior department approval, and only arborists with department approval may perform the work. 'City tree' covers any tree on city property, neutral ground, right-of-way, or planting strip — including the mature live oaks that line many streets. Anyone who damages or destroys a city tree must promptly notify the department and repair or replace it to the department's satisfaction. Removing a healthy tree that sits entirely on your own private lot is not generally subject to a city removal permit, though historic-district (HDLC/VCC) overlays can add site-plan review.
Removing or destroying a city tree without approval violates Ch. 106; the person must repair or replace the tree to the department's satisfaction, in addition to any applicable penalties.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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See how Orleans Parish's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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