Albuquerque, NM Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Street trees in the public right-of-way are governed by the Street Tree Ordinance, Article 6-6 of the Revised Ordinances of Albuquerque 1994, administered by the City Forester (Part 1, Sec. 6-6-1-1). The ordinance establishes clearance and maintenance standards under the Street Tree Policies (Sec. 6-6-2-5): the minimum height to the lowest permanent branch overhanging a sidewalk is seven feet, and the lowest height of a permanent branch overhanging a street is fourteen feet, so that pedestrians and vehicles are not obstructed. A permit from the City Forester is required to plant or remove trees in the public right-of-way (Sec. 6-6-1-4). The ordinance also requires the installation of street trees along major streets (Required Street Trees, Sec. 6-6-2-4). Companion Regulations for Street Tree Planting (EPC Resolution adopted February 10, 1983) govern species selection and planting standards. On private property within the city, electric utility and right-of-way tree trimming is further addressed at Sec. 13-4-2-6 (Tree Trimming, Maintenance, and Moving of Aerials).