Jefferson County, AL Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)

Mountain Brook's Tree Protection Ordinance (Code §129-10) identifies and protects Landmark Trees - specimens meeting size thresholds (typically 24 inches DBH for hardwoods, larger for certain species), historical significance, or species rarity. The Mountain Brook Tree Commission reviews Landmark Tree nominations and removal applications, which typically require demonstration of hazard, disease, or extreme hardship. Removal is rarely approved except for imminent danger. Construction near Landmark Trees requires root zone protection barriers and arborist supervision. Violation penalties include substantial fines and required remediation plantings. Birmingham does not have a formal heritage tree designation but the Historic Preservation Commission considers significant trees in historic district review. Highland Park, Forest Park, Five Points South, Norwood, and Smithfield historic districts contain many century-old oaks, magnolias, and pecans dating to early 20th century development. Vestavia Hills and Homewood have less formal protections. Alabama has no statewide heritage tree program comparable to Georgia's Champion Tree registry maintained through voluntary participation. The 2011 tornado outbreak and climate change increasing severe weather events have prompted renewed interest in large-tree preservation across the Birmingham metro. Residents can nominate trees to the Alabama Big Tree Registry maintained by Alabama Forestry Association.