Olathe, KS Tree Protection: Protected Tree Species (2026)
Key Facts
- Protected size
- 8 inches DBH or greater
- Measured at
- 4½ feet above ground
- Excludes
- non-native invasive species
- Exempt districts
- D, N, TOD, PR
Summary
Olathe protects any tree 8 inches or more in trunk diameter on land going through platting or site plan review, covering every species except non-native invasive trees.
A significant tree means a tree of eight (8) inches or greater, as measured four and one-half (4½) feet above the ground, for all tree species except for non-native invasive species. The applicant may omit trees that are not considered significant from the tree survey.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 26-39, passed July 21, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Under the Olathe Unified Development Ordinance, a "significant tree" subject to preservation rules is any tree with a trunk 8 inches or greater in diameter, measured 4½ feet above ground, for every species except non-native invasive ones. Applicants may leave smaller, non-significant trees off the required tree survey. The rule applies to subdivision plat and site development plan applications, but not in the D, N, TOD, or PR zoning districts.
Violations & Fines
No standalone fine schedule; enforcement runs through the plat/site plan approval process: the City can withhold approval or require mitigation under §18.30.240.G if protected trees are removed without authorization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a small ornamental tree count as protected in Olathe?
Are all zoning districts in Olathe covered?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Olathe
Compare Olathe to another location·View the Kansas tree protection overview
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