Buffalo, NY Tree Protection: Parkway Planting (2026)
Key Facts
- Maximum spacing
- 30 feet apart (varies by species)
- Minimum tree lawn width for planting
- 14 inches
- Corner intersection setback
- 50 feet (one side) / 30 feet (other side)
- Minimum trunk clearance
- 6 feet above ground
- Survival guarantee
- At least 2 growing seasons
- Nursery requirement
- NYS Dept. of Agriculture and Markets certified
Summary
Buffalo requires trees to be planted on the public right-of-way strip between the sidewalk and curb in front of each lot, spaced no more than 30 feet apart. Trees must be certified nursery stock, have trunks at least 6 feet above the ground, and be guaranteed for two growing seasons.
§ 467-8. Trees and development.
B. Specifications.
(1) On public property between the sidewalk and the curb, trees shall be planted and shall be spaced not more than 30 feet apart, depending on the tree variety used. The tree(s) shall be centered between the walk and the curb and shall be spaced to maximize the number of trees planted on the property. The types of trees to be planted will be as designated for the street under the master planting programs on file with the City Forester's office.
(3) To eliminate upheaving of sidewalks and curbs, appropriate species should be chosen if the tree lawn (planting strip) is less than three feet wide. No tree shall be planted if the tree lawn is less than 14 inches wide.
(5) On corner properties the Tree Layout Guide for Intersection Visibility... shall be observed, so that no tree shall be planted nearer than 50 feet to an intersection on one side of the street nor nearer than 30 feet to an intersection on the other side.
Full Breakdown
Under § 467-8(B), trees in the parkway strip between sidewalk and curb must be centered in the strip and spaced to maximize the number planted. No tree shall be planted where the strip is narrower than 14 inches. On corner properties, trees must observe intersection visibility setbacks (no closer than 50 feet to an intersection on one side, 30 feet on the other). Nurseries must be New York State certified. Trees must be transplanted stock (no collected or field-grown trees) and must survive at least two growing seasons. The Forestry Office maintains approved species lists.
Violations & Fines
Failure to comply with parkway planting requirements in connection with development is a violation of Chapter 467. The City may suspend or revoke permits, and violations carry fines up to $1,500 or up to 15 days imprisonment, or both.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I required to plant a tree in the strip between my sidewalk and the street in Buffalo?
How far apart should parkway trees be planted?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Buffalo
New York rules heatmap·Compare Buffalo to another location·View the New York tree protection overview
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