Sterling Heights, MI Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)

Landmark tree replacement required. When a landmark tree is proposed to be removed, the permit holder shall provide deciduous replacement trees with a cumulative caliper equaling at least 100%, or as otherwise determined by the arborist's assessment, of the d.b.h. of the landmark tree that was removed or proposed to be removed (rounded up to the nearest whole number). Landmark tree calculations shall be separate from any other regulated tree replacement calculation or requirement.

(D)   Replacement tree diversity. No one species of replacement tree shall account for more than 25% of all replacement trees proposed on a site.

(E)   Approval. All replacement trees shall satisfy American Standard for Nursery Stock standards and shall be:

(1)   No. 1 grade with a straight, unscarred trunk and a well-developed uniform;

(2)   Guaranteed to exhibit a normal growth cycle for at least one year following planting;

(3)   Approved through inspection by the city; and

(4)   Of a species not deemed to be prohibited by the city as set forth in the zoning ordinance.

(5)   Compliant with minimum planting size(s) required by city ordinance.

(F)   Replacement tree location.

(1)   The location of any replacement tree shall be on the same parcel or within the same overall development (in that priority) as the removed tree wherever feasible, as determined by the Office of Planning or the arborist.