Des Moines Forestry Division regulates planting, pruning, and removal of trees in the public parkway between sidewalk and curb; residents must obtain a permit and choose from an approved species list to plant or remove parkway trees.
Under DSM Municipal Code Ch. 102 and Forestry Division rules, trees in the public right-of-way are city property even when fronting private homes. Property owners may plant approved species after obtaining a free Forestry permit, but must use the approved list reflecting Tree City USA guidance and Emerald Ash Borer recovery (no ash species). Forestry inspects, approves placement clear of utilities and sight triangles, and enforces ongoing maintenance. Removal requires a permit and replacement under Ch. 102 replacement standards.
Unauthorized parkway planting or removal can incur fines of $100-$750 plus tree replacement costs charged to the owner.
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines targets equitable urban canopy expansion, prioritizing low-canopy neighborhoods such as Capitol East and parts of the south side, with the Climate...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines requires an approved tree removal and mitigation plan for any development activity triggering grading permits, site plans, or subdivision plats un...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines Chapter 42, Article X requires a tree removal and mitigation plan before obtaining grading permits, site plans, or subdivision approvals. Mature t...
See how Des Moines's parkway planting rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.