Cincinnati Tree Protection: Parkway Planting Rules (2026)

Cincinnati Park Board owns and maintains street trees in the public right-of-way under CMC Title 75 trees and shrubbery. Property owners adjacent to parkway strips between sidewalks and curbs must obtain a permit before planting, pruning, or removing any street tree. Park Board urban foresters approve species from an approved list emphasizing native and disease-resistant trees, including swamp white oak, river birch, and Kentucky coffeetree. Pruning by unlicensed parties is prohibited; instead, the Park Board performs cyclical pruning on a neighborhood schedule. Heritage tree designations under Title 75 add stricter protection. Damaging street trees during construction triggers Title 75 mitigation requirements coordinated with Buildings and Inspections.