Lafayette Parish, LA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Applies to
- City of Lafayette only, not parish
- Requirement
- Consult arborist before pruning or removal
- Covers
- Public property and street rights-of-way
- Exception
- City-parish crews and approved utility specs
- Penalty
- Up to $500 fine, 6 months jail
Summary
In the City of Lafayette, anyone pruning, removing or treating a tree or shrub on public property or in a street right-of-way must first consult the city-parish arborist before starting work. The rule doesn't reach the unincorporated parish.
Except as otherwise provided in this article, any person desiring to remove, destroy, prune (including the root system) or treat any tree or shrub on public property or in a public right-of-way, or place upon the ground any impervious substance within the covered area or dripline of any tree in such public place, shall first consult with the arborist; provided, however, that work performed by or under the direction of a city-parish department or agency shall not require individual approval but shall conform to the adopted specifications and standards of the arborist.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 65).
Full Breakdown
Article V of Chapter 78 covers trees and shrubs in the City of Lafayette only. Sec. 78-292 says the article applies only in the city, so the unincorporated parish and the separate towns of Broussard, Carencro, Duson, Scott, Youngsville and Milton aren't covered. Within city limits, Sec. 78-296 requires anyone pruning, removing or treating a tree or shrub on public property or in a public right-of-way to consult the city-parish arborist first, unless the work is done by a city-parish crew under adopted specifications, or by a utility with pre-approved pruning specs.
Violations & Fines
Working without arborist consultation violates Sec. 78-296 and falls under the code's general penalty: a fine up to $500, up to six months in jail, or both, per Sec. 1-9. Each day counts separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need permission to trim a tree in the Lafayette street right-of-way?
Does this rule apply outside the City of Lafayette?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lafayette Parish
Compare Lafayette Parish to another location·View the Louisiana landscaping rules overview
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