Springfield, MO Tree Protection: Parkway Planting (2026)
Key Facts
- Parkway width trigger
- Under 6 feet
- Max mature height (narrow parkway)
- 20 feet
- Max trunk diameter
- 8 inches
- Permit cost
- None (free)
- Enforcing office
- Director of Public Works
Summary
Springfield's code sets minimum planting distances for street trees and restricts what can go in a narrow parkway strip, requiring a free permit from the director of public works before anyone plants.
No person shall plant or cause to be planted any street tree in any parkway, which parkway has a width of less than six feet, unless the director of public works shall find that the proposed tree to be planted will at its maturity, attain a height no greater than 20 feet and a trunk diameter no greater than eight inches and that the rooting system of the type of tree proposed is of a deep-rooting nature not likely to cause damage to or interfere with sidewalks, curbs or streets.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 23 Update 2 | Land Development Code: Supplement 9 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
City Code § 114-60 bars planting a street tree in any parkway narrower than six feet unless the director of public works finds the chosen tree will mature no taller than 20 feet, with a trunk no thicker than eight inches, and has a deep-rooting system unlikely to damage sidewalks, curbs or streets. A companion table at § 114-57 sets minimum distances from curbs, sidewalks, driveways, streetlights, utility poles and street intersections, scaled to the tree's mature height. Anyone planting a street tree within Springfield city limits, Greene County, must first obtain a no-cost permit from the director of public works under § 114-61.
Violations & Fines
Planting an oversized species in a narrow parkway, or planting without director approval, violates Chapter 114, Division 2 and is punishable under the general penalty provision, § 1-7, upon conviction in municipal court.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant a street tree in a narrow Springfield, MO parkway?
Do I need a permit to plant a street tree in Springfield?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Springfield
Compare Springfield to another location·View the Missouri tree protection overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.