Montgomery County, OH Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Montgomery County, OH, sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances, list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Key Facts
- Private-lot rule
- None countywide
- Street trees
- City permit likely
- Park land
- Removal prohibited
- Park authority
- ORC 1545
- Township authority
- ORC Chapter 519
Summary
Montgomery County OH has no countywide tree-removal ordinance for private lots. Removing street or right-of-way trees needs municipal permission; removing plants in Five Rivers MetroParks is prohibited by park-district rules under ORC 1545.
Damaging, disturbing or removing any part of the park district, including plants, tree limbs, rocks and leaves, is prohibited.
Full Breakdown
Whether you need a permit to remove a tree in Montgomery County depends on your city, village, or township, not the county. Trees on private property are usually the owner's to remove, but public street trees and tree-lawn trees typically require a city permit and may require replacement. Townships regulate under ORC Chapter 519; cities under home rule. On park-district land, Five Rivers MetroParks (a park district under ORC Chapter 1545) prohibits damaging or removing plants and tree limbs. Always confirm with your municipal urban-forestry or public-works office before removing a protected or right-of-way tree.
Violations & Fines
MetroParks and municipal codes treat unauthorized tree removal as a minor misdemeanor with fines; damaging protected public trees can add replacement or restitution costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove a tree in my own backyard?
Are trees protected in Five Rivers MetroParks?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Montgomery County
Compare Montgomery County to another location·View the Ohio landscaping rules overview
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