Vestavia Hills, AL Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)

6, the Zoning Ordinance's Tree Preservation Regulations, adopted to preserve the city's mature pine, oak and other tree canopy, curb erosion, and protect property values. 4 as any tree with a caliper, trunk diameter measured four feet above grade, of at least six inches. 3, no Protected Tree may be removed, relocated, destroyed or otherwise damaged unless a tree permit has first been issued; incidental trimming or pruning by a homeowner or their agent does not need a permit, and the City can issue utility companies an annual blanket permit for line-clearance trimming.

The permit requirement does not reach lots zoned or used exclusively for single-family housing, or property zoned PUD, except that new residential subdivisions with five or more lots must submit a tree-save plan as part of their land disturbance permit application, reviewed by the Commission with input from the City Engineer, Building Safety and the Vestavia Hills Tree Commission. 5 requires written application to the Design Review Board with a landscape plan or an explanation of the request, plus a fee under the City's Schedule of Fees unless the tree is diseased, damaged or hazardous.

The DRB decides at its next regular meeting; the Building Official then issues the permit if approved. 6 grants a permit where the tree blocks an approved structure, is diseased or hazardous, interferes with utilities, or where the site retains comparable trees or replacements. A denial can be appealed to the Commission within 10 working days.