Mobile's iconic live oaks 24 inches and larger receive heritage tree protection under MCO Chapter 57, with strict replacement standards and the designated Champion Tree program tracking the largest specimens citywide.
Live oaks define Mobile's streetscape from Government Street to Spring Hill Avenue, with some specimens predating the city itself. Heritage trees, generally live oaks at 24 inches DBH or larger, cannot be removed without compelling justification reviewed by Urban Forestry, and replacement requirements are calculated by total caliper inches removed. The Champion Tree program separately recognizes outstanding specimens; some are individually listed and are essentially untouchable. Construction near heritage trees triggers root-zone protection fencing and prohibits soil compaction, paving, or grade changes within the critical root zone.
Killing or unpermitted removal of a heritage live oak can draw fines exceeding 1,000 dollars per tree plus replacement costs that often run several thousand dollars.
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See how Mobile's heritage & protected trees rules stack up against other locations.
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