Baton Rouge protects large-caliper heritage trees — notably live oaks 20 inches DBH or larger and pecans 24 inches DBH or larger — from removal without a permit from the Landscape Division. Removal without authorization can trigger fines up to $5,000 per tree. An ISA arborist report may be required.
East Baton Rouge Parish protects significant heritage trees under the City-Parish tree preservation framework, administered by the Landscape Division. Live oaks 20 inches DBH or greater and pecans 24 inches DBH or greater require a permit before removal, topping, or damage. Permits are reviewed within five business days; expedited 48-hour review is available for hazard trees with an ISA arborist's letter. Emergency storm removals may proceed immediately but require photographic documentation and a retroactive permit within 10 days. Tree work in historic overlays requires additional Landscape Division approval. Title 9, Chapter 11 governs licensed arborist work.
Unpermitted removal of a protected heritage tree may result in fines up to $5,000 per tree. Stop-work orders and mandatory replanting may also be imposed by the Landscape Division.
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