Lubbock does not require a permit to prune trees on private residential property. Trees overhanging public rights-of-way must be kept clear to 8 feet over sidewalks and 14 feet over streets. Oak wilt precautions are advised February through June.
Lubbock Code Chapter 24 gives the city authority over trees in public rights-of-way and requires property owners to trim private trees that overhang streets, alleys, or sidewalks to maintain a 14-foot clearance over streets and 8 feet over sidewalks and to remove dead limbs that threaten public safety. No permit is required to prune trees on private property, and no specific tree preservation ordinance applies to residential lots (unlike Austin or Dallas). Texas A&M AgriLife Extension recommends avoiding pruning red oak, live oak, and related species from February through June to reduce oak wilt spread by sap-feeding beetles. Lubbock is not a dense oak wilt epicenter but the guidance applies. Trimming that damages a neighbor tree at the property line may expose the trimmer to civil liability.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Lubbock, TX
The City of Lubbock does not regulate yard ornaments on private property. Statuary, religious displays, and decorative landscape elements are generally allow...
Lubbock, TX
Lubbock has no city ordinance setting size, height, or hours limits for inflatable holiday displays on private residential property. Wind is the primary prac...
Lubbock, TX
The City of Lubbock does not impose specific install-by or take-down-by dates for residential holiday lights. The general nuisance and right-of-way provision...
Lubbock, TX
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Lubbock require permits from the City of Lubbock Building Inspection Department for gas line installation, electrical work, plum...
Lubbock, TX
Lubbock does not have a smoker-specific ordinance for single-family residential use, but backyard smokers fall under the general nuisance provisions of the C...
Lubbock, TX
Lubbock adopts the International Fire Code through the City of Lubbock Code of Ordinances, with Lubbock Fire Rescue as enforcement authority. IFC Section 308...
See how Lubbock'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 If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.