Minneapolis, MN Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Boulevard trees between the curb and sidewalk are owned and maintained by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. Any trimming, topping, root cut, or removal of these trees requires an MPRB Forestry permit, and only tree care contractors registered with the MPRB may perform the work. Property owners may not prune boulevard trees themselves. On private property owners may prune their own trees without a city permit, but tree services operating in the city must hold a state tree care registration under Minnesota Statutes Chapter 18G. Trimming within 10 feet of energized overhead power lines should be performed by Xcel Energy or its contractor. Minneapolis is within the statewide emerald ash borer quarantine; ash tree debris may not be moved outside the county without a compliance agreement from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, so ash trimmings generally must go to the city yard-waste stream or an approved processor. Oak wilt season restrictions apply: oaks should not be pruned from April 1 through July 31 except in emergencies.