Tree removal permit rules in Pittsburgh, PA — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Pittsburgh requires permits for tree work on publicly owned property (City Forester). Private property tree removal rules are less strict but historic districts and overlay zones may have additional requirements. Large tree removals near rights-of-way should be coordinated with Pittsburgh Public Works.
Pittsburgh Shade Tree Commission manages trees on public property. Any tree service work on public land — trimming, pruning, removal, or replacement — requires a written permit. Private property tree removal has no permit requirement, but boundary trees near the street right-of-way must be verified as private before cutting. No PA statewide permit requirement for private tree removal. Conservation districts and historic district properties should check with PLI or HRC before removing significant trees.
Unauthorized removal: $500 to $10,000 per tree. Replacement planting required. Street tree damage: city restitution costs.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Allegheny County.
See how other cities in Allegheny County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
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