Queens County, NY Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)

Removing a tree in Queens follows strict permit requirements that distinguish between street trees and private trees. Street trees (in the sidewalk strip or park right-of-way) are owned by NYC Parks Department and require a Tree Removal Permit under 56 RCNY 1-04. Parks conducts site inspection, posts a 30-day public notice sign on the tree, and reviews objections before approval. Removal is generally only approved if the tree is dead, diseased beyond saving, creating a public safety hazard, or interfering with a permitted construction project where alternatives are infeasible. Permit fees range from $300 to $3,000 depending on tree size and circumstances, and the applicant typically must pay the Parks Restitution Fee based on trunk diameter to fund replacement plantings. Unauthorized removal of a street tree is punishable by fines of $500 to $15,000 per tree plus replacement costs that can exceed $10,000 for mature specimens. For private-property trees in most of Queens, no permit is required and owners may remove trees as needed. However, in Special Natural Area Districts (Douglaston-Little Neck), trees over 6 inches DBH require tree-preservation review under Zoning Resolution Article XI Chapter 5. Historic Districts (Douglaston, Sunnyside Gardens, Addisleigh Park, Jackson Heights) require Landmarks Preservation Commission review. Trees on NYCHA or city-park land cannot be removed by private parties under any circumstances.