Bowling Green, KY Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Per Bowling Green Code § 26-7 (Vegetation Maintenance): 'It is unlawful for the owner or occupant of any building or lot to permit any vegetation, including public trees, to grow in a manner which interferes with normal sidewalk traffic located on such lot or on public right-of-way adjoining such lot or street traffic, or to grow so as to pose a threat to safety on public rights-of-way due to obstruction of view, obstruction of passage or any other manner. Any and all pruning of a public tree shall comply with ANSI A300 (Part 1)-2001 Pruning standard. Additionally, trees that grow over a public right-of-way shall be maintained so that the lowest limb is at a height of no less than fifteen (15) feet above the right-of-way.' Bowling Green is a Tree City USA (continuous since 1994) and operates under the guidance of the Bowling Green Community Tree Advisory Board (§ 26-4), which discourages topping — '§ 26-6 Tree Topping' is treated as prohibited harmful practice. On private property entirely, the City does not require a permit to prune. Kentucky case law follows the 'Massachusetts Rule' (1985) — a neighbor may trim overhanging branches back to the property line without permission, but may not damage the tree or trespass.