Eagan, MN Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Eagan's Forestry Division promotes preservation, management and maintenance of the community's urban forest, and the City has been a Tree City USA community for 38 years. For routine trimming and pruning on private property, the City publishes guidance but does not require homeowners to obtain a permit to maintain their own trees. The key regulatory requirement is on the contractor side: businesses offering tree care and maintenance services within Eagan must obtain a Tree Maintenance Contractor License through the City Clerk's office, and these companies must renew annually. The City recommends residents hire only licensed tree contractors for trimming, health care and removal work. Crews applying pesticides for pests and diseases (such as emerald ash borer, oak wilt or Dutch elm disease) should hold the appropriate Minnesota pesticide applicator licenses. Trees located in the public right-of-way (the boulevard generally within 10 to 12 feet of the curb) are maintained by the City rather than the homeowner, so residents should not prune City boulevard trees themselves. The Eagan Forestry Staff offers free tree-health consultations to all residents, and the City notes it does not have legal authority to adjudicate tree disputes between private property owners.