Grand Rapids, MI Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)
Key Facts
- Designating body
- City Commission via Urban Forestry Committee
- Two tracks
- Public and Private Landmark Trees
- Duration
- For the life of the tree
- Reapplication wait
- 3 years after denial, no appeal
Summary
Grand Rapids designates trees of exceptional historic, cultural, or ecological value as Public or Private Landmark Trees through its Urban Forestry Committee, protecting each one for the life of the tree.
Sec. 3.64. - Landmark Tree Program. The City Commission hereby establishes a Landmark Tree program to recognize certain trees of historic, cultural or ecological value within the City of Grand Rapids. ... Sec. 3.65.(1) A public tree, in fair or better condition, that is determined to be of unique and intrinsic value to the City and residents because of its size, age, historic significance, or ecological value can be designated by the City Commission as a Public Landmark Tree after recommendation by the Urban Forestry Committee.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 70).
Full Breakdown
Section 3.64 establishes the City's Landmark Tree program to recognize trees of historic, cultural or ecological value. Under Section 3.65, a public tree in fair or better condition can be named a Public Landmark Tree by the City Commission after the Urban Forestry Committee recommends it, and the Forestry Division then keeps records and makes reasonable efforts to preserve it. Section 3.66 lets anyone nominate a private tree the same way, but the property owner must approve the nomination before the Committee will review it. Both designations last for the life of the tree, and Section 3.67 bars a denied nomination from being resubmitted for three years, with no appeal.
Violations & Fines
Damaging, cutting, or removing a public tree, including a designated Landmark Tree, without the required permit is a prohibited act under § 3.68, punishable as a municipal civil infraction under § 3.69, with each continuing day treated as a separate offense under § 3.70.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can nominate a tree for Landmark status in Grand Rapids?
Can I appeal if my Landmark Tree nomination is denied?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Grand Rapids
Compare Grand Rapids to another location·View the Michigan tree protection overview
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