Hinds County tree trimming is regulated through Jackson's tree preservation ordinance and municipal codes in Clinton, Byram, and Raymond. Jackson requires permits to remove trees over 6 inches DBH in some zoning districts and protects heritage trees. Utility companies have statutory authority under MS Code Ann. §77-3-33 to trim trees near power lines, and property owners must maintain sidewalk and street clearances.
Tree regulation in Hinds County is largely municipal. The City of Jackson has a tree preservation provision in its zoning ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter 118) requiring permits for removal of protected trees in certain districts, with particular attention to live oaks, magnolias, cypress, and other heritage species commonly found in Belhaven, Eastover, and along State Street. Property owners are responsible for trimming trees overhanging sidewalks and streets, maintaining minimum clearances of 8 feet over sidewalks and 14 feet over streets under Jackson Code §90-26. Failure to maintain clearance can result in the city trimming at owner expense. The Mississippi Forestry Commission provides technical assistance and urban forestry grants but does not enforce local tree ordinances. Utility companies, particularly Entergy and Atmos Energy, have right-of-way trimming authority under MS Code Ann. §77-3-33 and can trim without owner consent near distribution lines. Hurricane and tornado damage, including the devastating 1980 Jackson tornado and more recent 2011 and 2023 tornado events, makes storm-damaged tree removal a regular concern; emergency removal is exempt from permit requirements. Pearl River flood-adjacent areas around LeFleur's Bluff and Mayes Lake see regular tree stress from flooding.
Unpermitted removal of a protected tree in Jackson: $200 to $1,000+ fine under Municipal Code Chapter 118, with possible replacement planting requirement. Obstruction of sidewalk or street: 14-day notice to trim, then city crews trim at owner expense plus administrative fee. Damaging a neighbor's tree or utility trimming without authority: civil liability under MS common law.
See how Hinds County's tree trimming rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.