Nashville's tree protection regulations under Metro Code Chapter 17.24 and Title 17.40 Article X require tree surveys, preservation plans, and replacement for protected trees during development, enforced by the Metro Urban Forester.
Metro Nashville regulates tree removal and protection through Chapter 17.24 (Landscaping, Buffering and Tree Requirements) and Title 17.40, Article X (Tree Protection and Replacement Procedures). Any tree with a DBH of 24 inches or more must be surveyed during development. Heritage and specimen trees receive additional protections under Section 17.40.450. A tree removal permit from the Urban Forester is required for commercial and multi-family development projects; single-family and duplex properties are generally exempt. The Historic and Specimen Trees Program allows registration of significant trees, requiring Metro Tree Advisory Committee approval for removal. Street trees in the public right-of-way are maintained by the Metro Urban Forester's office under Title 2, Chapter 2.104.
Unauthorized removal of protected trees may result in fines and mandatory replacement at a ratio determined by the Urban Forester, including caliper-inch replacement requirements.
Nashville, TN
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