Ann Arbor is known as Tree Town with strong urban forestry protections. Street trees are city property requiring permits for trimming. The city's forestry division manages over 50,000 public trees.
Many Michigan cities have tree ordinances covering heritage trees and trees above a certain trunk diameter. The emerald ash borer (EAB) has devastated Michigan's ash trees since 2002, leading to widespread removal programs. Removal of protected trees may require a permit and replacement planting. Routine trimming generally doesn't require permits. Trees overhanging property lines: owner can trim branches to the property line under Michigan common law. Street trees are city property - do not trim without authorization. Ann Arbor and other cities have significant urban forestry programs.
Unauthorized removal of protected tree: $500 to $10,000+ per tree. Replacement planting may be required.
Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor prohibits storing abandoned, inoperable, or unregistered vehicles on public streets or visible on private property. Vehicles may be tagged and towe...
Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor regulates electric vehicle charging infrastructure for residential and commercial properties. Building codes may require EV-ready parking in new co...
Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor regulates overnight parking on public streets. Many areas restrict parking between certain hours or require permits for overnight street parking.
Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor requires pool barriers meeting safety codes to prevent drowning. Fences must be at least 4 to 5 feet tall with self-closing, self-latching gates.
Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor requires permits for retaining walls above a certain height, typically 4 feet. Engineering review may be required for taller walls.
Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor restricts or prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, coyotes, and bears. Feeding wildlife creates public safety hazards and nuisa...
See how Ann Arbor's tree trimming rules stack up against other locations.
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