Tulsa requires property owners to maintain trees so that dead limbs or hazardous conditions do not pose a public risk. Tree topping is prohibited by city ordinance as it is considered malpractice that damages tree health. Property owners may trim branches extending onto their property from a neighbor's tree under Oklahoma law, but must not harm the tree's overall health. A permit may be required for significant pruning or removal.
Tulsa may have protected tree ordinances for specific species (elms, pecans, post oaks). Heritage trees may require permits for removal. Street trees are city property; do not trim without authorization. Oklahoma ice storms cause significant and frequent tree damage - post-storm trimming and removal is a recurring issue. Development projects must submit tree surveys. Branches overhanging your property from a neighbor’s tree can be trimmed to the property line.
Unauthorized removal of protected trees: $250 to $5,000+ per tree. Replacement planting may be required.
Tulsa, OK
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Tulsa, OK
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Tulsa, OK
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Tulsa, OK
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Tulsa, OK
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Tulsa, OK
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Tulsa County.
See how other cities in Tulsa County handle tree trimming.
See how Tulsa's tree trimming rules stack up against other locations.
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