Norman, OK Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)
Key Facts
- Qualifying traits needed
- At least 3 of 6 listed characteristics
- Trunk-size trait
- 36 inches DBH or more
- Approval authority
- Tree Board, after Foresters' recommendation
- Owner obligation
- Record a deed restriction naming the City
- Duration
- Protection runs in perpetuity
- Release grounds
- Dead, hazardous, in right-of-way, or diseased
Summary
Property owners can nominate a tree on their own land as a 'historic tree' under NCC 16-912 if it shows at least three qualifying traits, including a trunk 36 inches DBH or larger, excellent health or structure, or historical importance. Once the Tree Board approves it, protection runs in perpetuity and the owner must record a deed restriction.
Owners may nominate trees on their own private property, outside of the public right-of-way, as historic trees, resulting in the protections outlined below. A historic tree shall include at least three of the following characteristics: Trees with trunk diameters equal to or in excess of 36 inches DBH; Excellent structure or unique structural character; Excellent health; High aesthetic appeal; Good longevity; and Historical importance. To nominate a tree as historic, a person must complete the forms provided by the Foresters and provide rationale for the designation meeting the guidelines established above. After consideration and recommendation of the historic designation by the Foresters, the designation shall proceed to the Tree Board for final approval. Once a tree is deemed historic, all provisions outlined above, including the limitations on alteration outlined in NCC 16-904, shall apply to the tree in perpetuity, regardless of its location except as otherwise provided herein. Once deemed historic, the owner shall place deed restrictions upon the tree in conjunction with NCC 16-904, so as to inform future owners of the status of the historic tree designation.
Full Breakdown
Article 16-IX's historic tree provision, NCC 16-912, is opt-in: a property owner nominates a tree standing outside the public right-of-way by completing forms from the City Foresters and showing the tree meets at least three of six listed characteristics: a trunk diameter of 36 inches DBH or more, excellent structure or unique structural character, excellent health, high aesthetic appeal, good longevity, or historical importance. The Foresters review the nomination and make a recommendation, but final approval rests with the Tree Board. Once a tree is designated historic, the alteration limits that apply to street trees under 16-904 attach to it permanently, regardless of where on the property it stands, and the designation survives a change of ownership: the owner must place a deed restriction referencing 16-904, naming the City as a party with power to release the restriction, so future buyers are on notice.
A historic designation is not absolute. The Foresters can file a release of the deed restriction, clearing the way for removal or alteration, if the tree is dead, poses an imminent hazard to life or property that can't be mitigated any other way, sits in a public right-of-way or easement, or has become diseased or infected. Because 16-904's alteration limits apply once a tree carries the historic label, altering a historic tree without the Foresters' sign-off exposes the owner to the same administrative fine structure as an unauthorized street-tree removal.
Violations & Fines
Altering a designated historic tree without a release under 16-912 is treated like an unauthorized street-tree removal under 16-904: an administrative fine of up to $50.00 per inch DBH, capped at $2,000.00. An owner can reduce that fine by planting replacement trees within six months, from a $200.00 credit for one tree up to a $2,000.00 credit for five, subject to the Foresters' approval of species and location.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get my tree designated as a Norman historic tree?
What do I have to do once my tree is designated historic?
Can a historic tree ever be removed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Norman
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