Saint Paul, MN Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Under Saint Paul Legislative Code Title XVII (Trees), it is unlawful to trim, prune, deface, or remove any tree or shrub growing on a public boulevard or street lawn without first obtaining permission from the Department of Parks and Recreation Forestry division. A Tree Work Permit is required for all boulevard tree maintenance and is issued at no cost. The permit process involves submitting a Tree Work Permit Application to Forestry, after which staff inspect the tree to determine eligibility. Work may only begin after receiving a signed approval. Certain pruning and removal work must be performed by a licensed and insured tree care contractor; the city maintains a list of approved contractors. Property owners who damage a boulevard tree without a permit may be required to pay for corrective pruning or the full replacement value of the tree. For trees on private property, no city permit is generally required unless the property is within the Tree Preservation District south of Lower Afton Road. Gopher State One Call must locate utilities before any stump removal or planting work begins. Forestry Customer Service can be reached at (651) 266-6400.