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Overland Park, KS Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Some Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Sidewalk clearance: 8 feet minimum
Truck route clearance: 13.5 feet minimum
Other street clearance: 12.5 feet minimum
Fireplug setback: 10 feet
Enforcing office: City Forester / Community Services Division

Summary

Overland Park requires 8 feet of tree and shrub clearance over public sidewalks, 13.5 feet over improved thoroughfares or truck routes, and 12.5 feet over all other streets, plus fixed setbacks from fireplugs, signs, light poles and box culverts.

A. No Tree or Shrub shall be planted in the Right-of-way within a distance of: 1. 10 feet of any fireplug 2. 15 feet of any regulatory sign 3. 20 feet of any street light pole 4. 10 feet of any box culvert. B. The minimum height clearances for Trees and Shrubs are: 1. 8 feet over public sidewalks 2. 13.5 feet over improved thoroughfares or designated truck routes 3. 12.5 feet over all other Streets

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Full Breakdown

5 feet over all other streets. The same section bars planting within fixed distances of certain infrastructure: 10 feet of any fireplug, 15 feet of any regulatory sign, 20 feet of any street light pole, and 10 feet of any box culvert. 180), and bars any tree or shrub placement that creates a Nuisance. A. 12-1,115. F, though replacements must comply.

Violations & Fines

Under Section 7.16.210, violating any minimum distance or clearance requirement, or allowing a tree/shrub to hinder or obstruct the right-of-way after notice, is a public offense punishable as provided in OPMC Section 1.12.010. Interfering with City Forester or Community Services Division employees performing inspections or abatement under this chapter is a separate offense, and the City may also seek an injunction, cost recovery or other civil remedy in court.

Frequently Asked Questions

How high must my tree branches be over the sidewalk in Overland Park?

Section 7.16.150.B requires at least 8 feet of clearance for trees and shrubs over public sidewalks, 13.5 feet over improved thoroughfares or designated truck routes, and 12.5 feet over all other city streets.

Can I plant a tree right next to a fire hydrant?

No. Section 7.16.150.A bars planting any tree or shrub within 10 feet of a fireplug, along with 15 feet of any regulatory sign, 20 feet of any street light pole, and 10 feet of any box culvert.

What happens if my tree blocks the sidewalk and I ignore a notice?

Under Section 7.16.210.C-D it becomes unlawful to let the tree remain in violation after a notice from the Community Services Division or City Forester, and the City can pursue prosecution under OPMC Section 1.12.010 as well as civil remedies including an injunction.

Sources & Official References

[1]Overland Park Municipal Code § 7.16.150

Other rules in Overland Park

Fence Regulations: Height LimitsSome Restrictions Tree Removal & Heritage TreesFew Restrictions Native PlantsSome Restrictions Rainwater HarvestingFew Restrictions Weed OrdinancesHeavy Restrictions Artificial TurfFew Restrictions Parking Rules: Loading ZonesSome Restrictions Parking Rules: Driveway RulesSome Restrictions Fence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsSome Restrictions Animal Ordinances: Veterinary Clinic ZoningSignificant Restrictions Animal Ordinances: MicrochippingSome Restrictions

All Overland Park rules

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