Brooklyn street trees are city property; trimming requires a free NYC Parks permit and must be performed by a licensed arborist under NYC Admin Code §18-129.
All street trees in Brooklyn—those growing in sidewalk tree pits and along public streets—are owned and managed by the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation. Under NYC Admin Code §18-129, it is unlawful to prune, cut, or otherwise harm any street tree without first obtaining a permit from NYC Parks Forestry. Permits are free but require applicants to use a licensed arborist certified by NYC Parks. Trimming of private backyard trees does not require a Parks permit unless the tree overhangs a public right-of-way. Unauthorized trimming can result in civil penalties up to $15,000 per tree plus restoration costs. Request pruning through 311 or the NYC Parks website.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Kings County code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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