St. Louis, MO Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
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.
Key Facts
- Applies to
- City-owned trees and right-of-way trees
- Issuing authority
- Commissioner of Forestry
- Fee
- Reforestation fee scaled to trunk size
- Private-property trees
- Not covered unless declared a hazard
- No-permit penalty
- $500 fine per City tree
Summary
Removing a tree from City-owned land or the street right-of-way requires a 'permit to maintain' from the Forestry Commissioner plus a reforestation fee: trees on private property aren't covered by this permit.
No person shall directly or indirectly perform maintenance, including, but not limited to, pruning, spraying or removal, on any City tree without first obtaining a permit ("permit to maintain") from the Commissioner.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 11).
Full Breakdown
The Division of Forestry's rules apply only to 'City trees', trees on City-owned land or within the right-of-way, including the 'tree lawn' between sidewalk and curb (§ 22.48.020). No person may prune, spray or remove a City tree without first obtaining a permit to maintain from the Commissioner (§ 22.48.110.A). Approved removals carry a reforestation fee scaled to trunk diameter, which the Commissioner may waive for cause (§ 22.48.130). When a building permit triggers removal of a City tree, for demolition, renovation or new construction on any parcel, a permit to maintain is still required before the tree comes down (§ 22.48.150.D). Trees on private property outside the right-of-way aren't regulated unless the Commissioner declares one a hazard (§ 22.48.200).
Violations & Fines
Removing a City tree without a permit: $500 flat fine plus replacement costs, capped at $500 per tree (§ 22.48.150.D). Other chapter violations: $100–$500 fine or up to 30 days jail, each day a separate offense (§ 22.48.240.A).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my own property in St. Louis?
What does it cost to remove a City tree?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in St. Louis
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