Memphis regulates trimming and removal of public right-of-way trees through the Division of Parks and Urban Forestry. Private trees on private property may generally be trimmed without a permit, but overhanging branches have defined neighbor rights under Tennessee common law.
The Memphis Urban Forestry program manages street trees in the public right-of-way. Pruning, removal, or planting of trees between the sidewalk and curb requires a permit from Parks and Urban Forestry. Private-property trees may usually be trimmed or removed without a city permit unless they are designated heritage trees or located in a historic district. Tennessee common law allows a neighbor to trim branches of a tree that overhang their property up to the property line, at their own expense, without permission, provided the trimming does not harm the tree. Fruit from overhanging branches belongs to the tree owner. Roots crossing the property line may be cut at the line. Memphis historic districts (Central Gardens, Evergreen, Annesdale-Snowden) may require Landmarks Commission review for street-tree removal. MLGW maintains clearances around overhead power lines and may trim without property-owner consent. Storm debris cleanup is coordinated through MLGW and Solid Waste after major events.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Memphis code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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See how Memphis's tree trimming rules stack up against other locations.
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