Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
Key FactsOrdinance TextFull BreakdownViolationsFAQSourcesMore in Lincoln

Lincoln, NE Tree Protection: Parkway Planting (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Governing strip
curb line to property line
Permit required for
planting/removing street trees
Enforcing agency
Parks and Recreation Director
Max penalty
$500 fine or 6 months jail

Summary

Lincoln limits the strip between curb and sidewalk to approved street trees, turf, and specific low plantings, with a permit required for any street tree work.

The Sidewalk Space (as defined in Section 10.02.350) shall be used only for the location of approved street trees in accordance with Section 12.20.020, turf grass, shrubs, perennial and annual flowering plants, ornamental grasses, vegetable gardens, and ground covers. Shredded wood mulch may be placed around street trees and landscape plantings within the sidewalk space.

Source: Lincoln Parks and RecreationView official code

Full Breakdown

Lincoln Municipal Code § 12.20.021 restricts the "sidewalk space", the strip of street between the curb line and the adjacent property line under § 10.02.350, to approved street trees under the Master Street Tree Plan, turf grass, shrubs, perennial and annual flowering plants, ornamental grasses, vegetable gardens, ground covers, and shredded wood mulch. Planting, treating, or removing any street tree in that strip requires a written permit from the Parks and Recreation Director under § 12.20.040, and the abutting property owner is responsible for routine care of non-tree plantings under § 12.20.035.

Violations & Fines

Unpermitted street tree planting or removal in the sidewalk space is enforced by the Parks and Recreation Director under Chapter 12.20, with general Title 12 violations punishable as a misdemeanor: up to 6 months in jail, a fine up to $500, or both, with each day a separate offense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I plant a tree in the parkway strip myself?
Only with a written permit from the Parks and Recreation Director under LMC § 12.20.040; the tree becomes city property once planted.
What can I plant in the strip without a permit?
Turf grass, shrubs, flowering plants, ornamental grasses, vegetable gardens, ground covers, and mulch are allowed without a tree permit under § 12.20.021.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Lincoln

Fence Regulations: Height LimitsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Curb Color RulesSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet Groomer RulesSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Wildlife Rescue PermitsSignificant Restrictions

All Lincoln rules

Compare Lincoln to another location·View the Nebraska tree protection overview

Get notified when Parkway Planting in Lincoln, NE changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.