Tree removal permit rules in Philadelphia, PA — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Phila. Code §14-705 requires a landscape and tree preservation plan for development on lots over 5,000 sq ft. Heritage trees (24+ inch DBH of listed species) cannot be removed without meeting specific conditions or obtaining a special exception from the Zoning Board. Tree replacement is required per §14-705(1)(g).
Phila. Code §14-705 governs on-site landscape and tree requirements. Heritage trees are expressly protected and may not be removed without meeting specific standards (§14-705(1)(f)(.1)) or obtaining special exception approval (§14-705(1)(f)(.2)). Any zoning permit application for development on lots over 5,000 sq ft must include a Landscape and Tree Preservation Plan prepared by a licensed professional. New construction must provide at least one street tree per 35 linear feet of frontage. If a waiver results in reduced tree planting, a mandatory in-lieu fee payment is required before permit issuance.
Unauthorized tree removal: L&I citation, possible stop-work order. In-lieu fees required for waivers.
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See how Philadelphia's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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