Winston-Salem, NC Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Under the city's tree ordinance, no person may plant, prune, spray, cable, brace, remove, or otherwise maintain a tree on any public property, including street rights-of-way and sidewalk strips, without first filing for and obtaining a permit from the assistant city manager for public works or a designee. Applications must be submitted at least 48 hours before work begins, and the official issues a permit only if the work fits the department's roadway-appearance policies, poses no threat to public health or safety, and uses industry-standard methods. Public utility companies doing continuous tree work can get an annual master permit instead of filing per job.