Tree removal permit rules in St. Louis, MO — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
St. Louis street trees (in the public right-of-way between sidewalk and curb) require a permit from the Forestry Division before any trimming or removal under Ord. §22.20. Private yard trees are not regulated except during construction. Illegal street tree removal carries fines up to $500 plus replacement cost.
St. Louis Revised Code Title 22 Chapter 22.20 (Tree Preservation) establishes the Forestry Commissioner's exclusive authority over all trees in public rights-of-way, parks, and city-owned property. Any pruning, removal, or root disturbance of a street tree requires a free permit obtained through the Forestry Division (314-622-3589). Unauthorized work — including hiring a private arborist without a permit — is a Municipal Code violation. Private yard trees on residential lots are generally unregulated and homeowners may remove them without a permit, except when: (1) the tree is within a historic district subject to Cultural Resources Office review, (2) the removal is part of permitted construction in which case the site plan must show tree locations, or (3) the tree is a Landmark Tree designated under §22.20.040. Certified arborists performing work in the city must register annually with the Forestry Division under §22.20.080.
Unpermitted street tree removal or damage: $100-$500 fine per tree under Ord. §22.20.150, plus restitution for replacement value (typically $300-$3,000 depending on species and caliper per ISA appraisal). Damaging a tree with equipment, herbicide, or excavation: same fine schedule plus damages. Unregistered arborist operating in city: $100 per day of violation. Landmark Tree removal without Forestry Commissioner approval: up to $1,000 fine per tree.
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See how St. Louis's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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