Flint, MI Tree Protection: Parkway Planting (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum sidewalk-curb clearance
- 3 feet
- Poor-soil planting hole
- 5 ft wide, 2.5 ft deep
- Permanent tree spacing
- 40 feet apart minimum
Summary
Flint requires at least three feet of clear space between sidewalk and curb before a street tree permit is granted, plus proper soil or an amended planting hole.
No permit for planting trees, plants or shrubs shall be given where the clear space between the sidewalk and curb is less than three feet, neither shall a permit be given where the soil is too poor to insure the growth of the tree, plant or shrub, unless the applicant agrees to excavate a hole of not less than five feet in diameter and two and one-half feet deep and to replace the material removed with suitable good loam.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2016 Code: Local legislation current through Ordinance 3821, passed 3-1-2012).
Full Breakdown
City of Flint Code § 45-7 bars the Recreation and Park Board from issuing a planting permit where the clear space between sidewalk and curb is under three feet. If soil is too poor to support growth, a permit still requires the applicant to excavate a hole at least five feet across and two-and-a-half feet deep and backfill with suitable loam. Companion § 45-8 caps new trees at no closer than 40 feet apart, with temporary trees allowed at 20-foot intervals.
Violations & Fines
A permit application that doesn't meet the clear-space, soil-preparation or spacing standards in §§ 45-7 and 45-8 is refused by the Recreation and Park Board.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much space does Flint require between the sidewalk and curb to plant a tree?
How far apart must new street trees be planted in Flint?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Flint
Compare Flint to another location·View the Michigan tree protection overview
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