Franklin, TN Tree Protection: Parkway Planting (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Zoning Ordinance § 12.8
- Coverage
- Both sides of every street
- Planting strip width
- 6 feet minimum
- Tree type
- Large-maturing canopy species
Summary
Franklin's 2026 zoning ordinance requires street trees along both sides of every street and internal drive, planted in tree wells, six-foot planting strips, or bulb-outs.
Street trees shall be required along both sides of all streets and internal drives, except undeveloped edges of natural areas and as required in Section 4.9, Scenic Corridor Overlay District. Street trees shall be planted within tree wells, planting strips or bulb-outs. ... Planting strips shall have a minimum width of six feet. The trunks of street trees shall be a minimum of three feet from the back edge of the street curb at time of planting.
Full Breakdown
Franklin Zoning Ordinance § 12.8.1 requires street trees along both sides of all streets and internal drives, with exceptions only for undeveloped natural-area edges and the Scenic Corridor Overlay District. Trees go in tree wells, planting strips, or bulb-outs. Planting strips must be at least six feet wide and sit between the curb and sidewalk, with tree trunks kept at least three feet from the back of the curb at planting. Street trees must be large-maturing canopy species, though understory trees may substitute where overhead utility lines are present.
Violations & Fines
Development plans that omit required street trees or use undersized tree wells and planting strips won't clear site plan review by the Department of Planning and Sustainability, delaying or blocking project approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all Franklin streets need street trees?
Can smaller trees be used instead of canopy trees?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Franklin
Compare Franklin to another location·View the Tennessee tree protection overview
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