Billings, MT Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Sidewalk clearance
- 11 feet minimum
- Street clearance
- 14 feet minimum
- Alley overhang limit
- 1 foot past property line
- Max fine
- $500 per day
Summary
Billings property owners must keep tree limbs at least 11 feet above sidewalks and 14 feet above streets and alleys.
It is unlawful for any person who is the owner or person in control or management of any lot, block or parcel of land within the city to permit or allow to be kept or allow to grow upon such lot, block or parcel of land or within the curb of the street, alley, boulevard or public way adjacent thereto, any tree or other vegetative growth whose limbs or branches shall extend over the sidewalk along the property within eleven (11) feet above the surface of the sidewalk or any tree whose limbs or branches shall extend over the street along the property within fourteen (14) feet above the surface of the street or shall extend into the alley more than one (1) foot from the property line for a distance of fourteen (14) feet above the alley surface.
(Code 1967, § 14.01.080)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 66 Update 2).
Full Breakdown
Under Sec. 25-205, it's unlawful for a property owner to let trees or vegetation on their lot, or in the adjacent street, alley, or boulevard, hang branches lower than 11 feet over a sidewalk or 14 feet over a street. In alleys, growth can't extend more than 1 foot past the property line for 14 feet of vertical clearance. Sec. 25-204 puts full care and maintenance responsibility for boulevard trees on the adjacent property owner, though the city can step in to prune or remove growth blocking clear-vision zones or traffic signs.
Violations & Fines
Misdemeanor under Sec. 1-110: up to a $500 fine and/or 6 months jail, with each day of non-compliance a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who trims boulevard trees in Billings?
Can the city trim my tree without asking?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Billings
Compare Billings to another location·View the Montana landscaping rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.