Saint Paul, MN Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)

Removing any tree from a public boulevard in Saint Paul requires a Tree Work Permit from the Forestry division, issued at no charge. Property owners who receive approval to remove a city-owned boulevard tree may be required to pay the appraised value of the tree plus replacement costs. For private property within the Tree Preservation District (south of Lower Afton Road), a Tree Preservation Plan must be submitted and approved before the city will issue grading permits, lot splits, site plans, or building permits that involve removing trees 12 inches or larger in diameter. The application fee is $273 and the plan must be certified by a Minnesota-registered land surveyor, landscape architect, or forester. Replacement ratios are: 1-for-1 for trees 12 to 18 inches in diameter, 2-for-1 for trees 18 to 24 inches, and 3-for-1 for trees over 24 inches. Deciduous replacement trees must be at least 2 caliper inches; conifers must be at least 6 feet tall. Replacements must be planted within 12 months of removal. A performance bond equal to 125% of the replacement tree value must be posted before approval. The city conducts at least three inspections: during plan review, before construction, and upon project completion. Outside the Tree Preservation District, private tree removal does not require a city permit.