Fort Wayne, IN Tree Protection: Parkway Planting (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit authority
- Board of Park Commissioners
- Species
- Approved list only, § 99.140(A)
- Tree spacing
- At least 40 feet apart
- Unauthorized-tree removal
- 10 days after notice
- Max fine
- $2,500 per day
Summary
Fort Wayne requires a Board of Park Commissioners permit before anyone plants, trims, or removes a tree in the street parkway, and limits new street trees to an approved species list.
The planting of trees other than those listed in § 99.140(A) is prohibited along any street except by permission of the Board of Park Commissioners... In all cases trees shall be planted at least 40 feet apart irrespective of the size of the abutting lots along any street.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-60: Supplement contains: Local legislation current through Ord. G-19-26, passed 7-14-26, and Res. 83-19, passed 12-17-19 State legislation current through Legislative Service, 2025 Acts, Pamphlet No. 3).
Full Breakdown
Only listed street tree species (Norway maple, red oak, ginkgo, sycamore, and similar approved varieties) may be planted along a street without special permission; anything else requires Board of Park Commissioners approval. Written permission from the Board is required before anyone plants, trims, or removes a tree, shrub, vine, or plant within any public street, thoroughfare, or parkway. Spacing rules keep trees at least 40 feet apart and set minimum clearances from intersecting sidewalks, and unauthorized trees must be removed within 10 days of notice or the city bills the owner and liens the property.
Violations & Fines
Violating the chapter carries a fine up to $2,500 per day under the general Code penalty; unauthorized removal costs plus a lien on the property if the owner doesn't remove an unlisted tree within 10 days of notice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant any tree in the parkway strip between my sidewalk and the street?
Do I need a permit to trim a street tree in Fort Wayne?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fort Wayne
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