All planting in public rights-of-way, neutral grounds, and parks requires a permit from the Department of Parks and Parkways under Chapter 82. The City maintains an approved species list adapted to New Orleans's hot, humid, flood-prone soils.
Residents who want to plant a street tree in the parkway between sidewalk and curb, or on a neutral ground, must apply to Parks and Parkways. Staff verify species suitability, sight lines, utility conflicts, and spacing from driveways, hydrants, and street furniture. Approved species emphasize natives and proven urban performers such as live oak, bald cypress, southern magnolia, and crepe myrtle, with restrictions on invasive or short-lived species. Parkway Partners and the ReLeaf NOLA initiative supply trees and volunteers for many neighborhood plantings. Property owners are responsible for watering and care during the establishment period under city policy.
Planting in the right-of-way without a permit, planting prohibited species, or installing planters that obstruct sight triangles or accessible paths can lead to removal at owner expense and Chapter 82 fines.
See how New Orleans's parkway planting rules stack up against other locations.
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