Philadelphia County Tree Trimming Rules (2026) — What You Need to Know
Some RestrictionsKey Facts
- Street Tree Maintenance
- Parks & Recreation responsibility
- Cost to Property Owner
- No charge for maintenance or removal
- Permit Required
- Major pruning or removal of street trees
- Private Tree Duty
- Must prevent overhanging/encroachment
- Response Time
- 7–10 working days for inspections
- Code Reference
- § 15-203; PM-312; § 14-705
The Short Version
Philadelphia manages street trees under § 15-203, with Parks & Recreation responsible for all street tree maintenance at no cost to property owners. Residents may perform basic care like watering but need a permit for major pruning or removal. Property owners must maintain private trees to prevent overhanging or encroaching on neighboring properties under Property Maintenance Code PM-312. New development on lots over 5,000 sq. ft. must comply with on-site landscaping and street tree planting requirements under Zoning Code § 14-705.
Full Breakdown
Philadelphia's tree regulations span three areas of the code: § 15-203 for street trees, Property Maintenance Code PM-312 for private tree obligations, and Zoning Code § 14-705 for landscaping requirements on new development.
Under § 15-203 of the Parks and Recreation code, the city is responsible for all street tree maintenance — trimming, pruning, spraying, and removal — whether the tree abuts private or public property. No costs may be charged to the abutting property owner for street tree maintenance or removal unless expressly authorized by City Council ordinance. The Commission (Parks & Recreation) adopts maintenance schedules and may use nationally accepted arboriculture standards.
Residents can perform basic care on street trees adjacent to their property, such as watering and minor upkeep. However, any major pruning or removal requires a permit from Parks & Recreation. To report a problem with a street tree — such as dead limbs, disease, or root damage — residents submit a 311 service request or call the Street Tree Management division at (215) 685-4363. Staff respond within 7 to 10 working days for an inspection.
Property Maintenance Code Section PM-312 addresses overhanging or encroaching trees on private property. An "overhanging or encroaching tree" is defined as any tree whose portion overhangs or rests upon another's property in a manner that harms or is likely to harm it, or that is dead, weakened, or decayed such that it could reasonably be expected to fall on another's property. Property owners must inspect their trees to discover defects that could harm adjacent people or property. This section does not apply to street trees, which are covered by § 15-203.
For new development, Zoning Code § 14-705 imposes on-site landscape and street tree requirements for lots greater than 5,000 square feet. Building permits are not issued unless the applicant deposits funds or posts a bond sufficient to cover the city's cost of purchasing and planting required street trees if the applicant fails to comply.
What Happens If You Violate This?
Failure to maintain private trees that overhang or encroach on neighboring properties violates PM-312 and can result in code violation notices and fines up to $300 per offense. Unauthorized removal or major pruning of street trees without a permit can result in fines and requirements to replace the tree. New development that fails to meet § 14-705 landscaping requirements will have the bond or deposit used by the city to plant required trees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is responsible for trimming street trees in Philadelphia?
Can I trim or remove a street tree in front of my Philadelphia home?
What are my obligations for trees on my private property?
Sources & Official References
Related Ordinances in Philadelphia County
How does Philadelphia County compare?
See how Philadelphia County's tree trimming rules stack up against other locations.