Pruning a tree on your own Norfolk lot needs no permit. But the bureau of parks and forestry holds control over street trees and the curb strip, so any work on or near a city tree requires a tree permit.
In Norfolk, trimming a tree standing on your private property is not regulated by the city. The governing rule is Chapter 45: the bureau of parks and forestry has management, control and care of the area between the curb and the walkway and of all trees on streets and public grounds, and it directs their pruning and removal. Work on or near a city tree, or in the right-of-way strip, needs a tree permit from the Parks and Forestry office (treepermits@norfolk.gov). Utility-line clearance is coordinated with the bureau, not handled by residents.
Pruning or removing a city tree, or working near one, without a permit violates Chapter 45 and exposes you to restitution and penalties set by the city. Private-yard pruning carries no city penalty.
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See how Norfolk City's tree trimming rules stack up against other locations.
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