Nashville property owners are responsible for trimming trees on their property. Metro Code Chapter 17.24 and Chapter 2.226 govern tree protection and replacement. Trees in the public right-of-way require NDOT/Metro Water approval before trimming.
Property owners may trim trees on private property without a permit as long as no removal occurs. Trees in the public right-of-way (street trees) may not be trimmed or removed without prior approval from NDOT and Metro Water Services. Metro Code Chapter 17.24 governs landscape buffering and tree replacement requirements. Trees overhanging neighbor's property may be trimmed to the property line, but the root system may not be cut in a way that kills the tree (civil liability). Metro Tree Trust Fund resources support public tree planting. Heritage trees (24"+ diameter) must be survey-located on development plans.
Unauthorized trimming of right-of-way trees: violation with Metro Water/NDOT enforcement.
Nashville, TN
Nashville has no general Metro Code ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, garden statues, or yard decorations on private residential property. Items must sta...
Nashville, TN
Nashville has no specific Metro Code ordinance regulating inflatable holiday displays on private residential property. Inflatables must remain on the propert...
Nashville, TN
Nashville does not have a dedicated ordinance regulating residential holiday lighting. General electrical safety, nuisance, and historic district rules apply...
Nashville, TN
Permanent outdoor kitchens in Nashville require Metro Codes permits when they include gas lines, plumbing, electrical work, or structures. Built-in grills wi...
Nashville, TN
Nashville treats smokers and solid-fuel cooking devices under the International Fire Code Section 308 as adopted by Metro Code. Use on combustible balconies ...
Nashville, TN
Nashville follows the International Fire Code (IFC) Section 308 as adopted by Metro Code Title 10. Use of propane grills and open-flame cooking devices on co...
See how Nashville'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 If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.