Sterling Heights, MI Tree Protection: Parkway Planting (2026)
Key Facts
- Intersection setback
- 20 feet minimum
- Tree spacing
- At least 30 feet apart
- Curb-sidewalk clearance
- 5 feet minimum
- Curb/sidewalk setback
- 1 foot, permit below that
Summary
Sterling Heights sets exact placement rules for trees planted in the street right-of-way: no planting near intersections, and minimum clearance from the curb and sidewalk.
The following regulations are established for the planting, trimming and care of the trees in or upon the public highways and public places of the city: ... (3) No tree shall hereafter be planted at the intersection of two or more streets or within 20 feet of such intersection; ... (9) No tree shall be planted nearer than one foot from the curbline or outer line of the sidewalk, unless a special permit is granted by the City Manager or his or her designee.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-46: Local legislation current through Ord. 509, passed 5-19-26).
Full Breakdown
City Code § 51-6 governs any tree planted in the public right-of-way, or parkway strip. Trunks must start at least one and one-half inches in diameter and be staked for support up to three inches. Trees can't go within 20 feet of a street intersection and must sit at least 30 feet apart. At least 5 feet of clear space is required between the curb and sidewalk, and nothing may be planted within a foot of the curbline or sidewalk without a special permit from the City Manager's office.
Violations & Fines
Violating the planting standards is a misdemeanor under the Code's general penalty, § 1-9: up to a $500 fine and 90 days in jail; a separate permit is required under § 51-8 to plant in the right-of-way at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant a tree in the parkway strip in front of my Sterling Heights house?
How far apart must street trees be planted in Sterling Heights?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sterling Heights
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Parkway Planting in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Macomb County handle parkway planting.