Yonkers, NY Tree Protection: Parkway Planting (2026)

Section 80-12 sets the baseline: it is unlawful to plant any tree in an area where there is less than 36 inches' distance between the curb and sidewalk in the ground area maintained for the tree, unless the Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Conservation expressly permits it. Section 80-19 backs that up with a permit requirement for any planting in a public highway or public place, on application forms describing the variety, size and precise location of each tree; applications for more than 25 trees on one permit can be required to include a full planting plan drawn to scale.

Section 80-21 fills in the numeric detail for how planting has to be done: no tree less than one inch in trunk diameter, tree guards required for young trees up to three inches in diameter, no planting within 20 feet of a street intersection, spacing of at least 30 feet between trees generally (40 feet for Norway maples, pin oaks, scarlet oaks, silver linden and sweet gums; 50 feet for sugar maples, plane trees and red oaks), a minimum 3-foot clear space between curb and sidewalk, no closer than one foot from the curbline or sidewalk without a special permit, and no planting within six feet of a driveway.

Section 80-20 bans poplar trees on any public highway or public place outright and bars planting any tree, even on private ground, where its roots could penetrate under a public highway. The Shade Tree Commission reviews applications and can approve or disapprove the proposed method and workmanship before the Commissioner issues a permit.