Jackson County Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming Rules (2026)

Jackson County manages trees through municipal ordinances enforced by code enforcement and parks departments in Pascagoula, Ocean Springs, Moss Point, and Gautier, with unincorporated areas under county authority. Ocean Springs has an active tree preservation ordinance reflecting its character as an arts community nicknamed 'The City of Discovery' with extensive live oak canopy. Permits are typically required to remove trees over 6 to 12 inches DBH (diameter at breast height) on private property, with stronger protections for live oaks, magnolias, pecans, and other heritage species. The Mississippi Forestry Commission provides technical assistance but does not enforce local tree ordinances. Property owners must maintain trees that overhang sidewalks (minimum 8 feet clearance) and streets (minimum 14 feet clearance). Hurricane-damaged trees may be removed without permit for immediate safety, which has been especially relevant since Hurricane Katrina (2005) and subsequent storms. Post-storm cleanup often involves streamlined removal processes coordinated through Jackson County Emergency Management. Utility companies retain the right to trim trees near power lines under MS Code Ann. §77-3-33, including Mississippi Power and Singing River Electric Cooperative service areas. Live oaks lining coastal roads in Ocean Springs and along the Gulf Coast are protected under local ordinance and should not be trimmed without municipal review.