Minneapolis, MN Tree Protection: Protected Tree Species (2026)
Key Facts
- Threshold
- 12-inch diameter trees protected
- Governing section
- Zoning Code § 550.2110(a)(1)
- Review point
- Site plan review, Chapter 525
- If not preserved
- Mitigation required, § 550.2110(b)
Summary
Minneapolis requires new development to preserve 'significant trees', remnant native stands, rare or horticulturally valuable species, and any tree 12 inches or larger in diameter, as undeveloped open space under the zoning code's natural-features standard.
All development shall be located so as to preserve the natural features of the site...the following areas shall be preserved as undeveloped open space, to the extent consistent with the reasonable utilization of land...(1) Significant trees or plant communities including remnant stands of native trees or remnant prairie grasses, trees or plant communities that are rare to the area or of particular horticultural or landscape value, or trees with a diameter at breast height of twelve (12) inches or larger.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 72).
Full Breakdown
Zoning Code § 550.2110(a)(1) designates remnant stands of native trees, plant communities rare to the area or of particular horticultural or landscape value, and any tree with a trunk diameter of 12 inches or more at breast height as 'significant trees' that development must preserve as undeveloped open space wherever consistent with reasonable use of the land. Compliance is reviewed as part of the site plan review process under Chapter 525, Administration and Procedures. Where preservation isn't feasible, § 550.2110(b) authorizes the city to require mitigation, replacing the resource, restoring former natural amenities, or other reasonable measures, rather than letting the trees simply be cleared.
Violations & Fines
Failing to identify or preserve significant trees can block site plan approval; the zoning administrator may require redesign or mitigation under § 550.2110(b) before permits issue, and clearing outside an approved plan can draw zoning enforcement action.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a 'significant tree' under Minneapolis zoning?
Can a developer remove a significant tree in Minneapolis?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Minneapolis
Compare Minneapolis to another location·View the Minnesota tree protection overview
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