Midland, TX Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Clearance height
- 7 ft above sidewalk
- Setback from curb
- 5 ft minimum
- Enforcement
- City Manager, on notice
- Max fine
- $500 per day
Summary
Midland requires trees planted in city street rights-of-way to be trimmed clear of branches and leaves below seven feet above the sidewalk, so pedestrians have full headroom to pass.
On unimproved city-held rights-of-way, on the sides, but not in the medians, of local streets and minor collector streets, living, healthy trees may be placed and maintained in the City-held rights-of-way; provided that approved curb, gutter and public sidewalks are in place and that the tree is located at least five feet behind the curbline. Furthermore, that tree must be free of branches and leaves below seven feet above sidewalk level.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Municipal Code: Supplement 1 Update 2).
Full Breakdown
Under Section 10-1-10 of the Code of Ordinances, a tree planted in a Midland right-of-way must sit at least five feet behind the curbline and stay free of branches and leaves below seven feet above sidewalk level. Immature trees can keep lower growth only if the City Manager certifies they don't create a sight obstruction, and that certification expires every December 31 unless renewed. The City Manager can remove any tree that violates the clearance standard or blocks a required sight triangle at an intersection, and each day a violation continues is a separate offense under the Code.
Violations & Fines
City Manager may remove noncompliant limbs or trees; each day of violation is a separate offense, fined up to $500 under Sec. 1-3-1.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to plant a street tree in Midland?
What happens if my tree's branches hang below 7 feet over the sidewalk?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Midland
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Midland to another location·View the Texas landscaping rules overview
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