Omaha regulates street trees and public-right-of-way trees through the Forestry Division, protects heritage and landmark trees, and manages emerald ash borer response.
Omaha Parks and Recreation Forestry Division manages street trees in the public right-of-way, requiring a permit to plant, prune, or remove any tree in the ROW. The Arboretum Tree City USA status drives active forestry management. On private property, Omaha does not have a broad tree preservation ordinance covering removals on single-family lots, unlike some West Coast cities. However, landmarked properties, historic districts, and trees preserved under subdivision plats or HOA covenants may have removal restrictions. Emerald ash borer (EAB) confirmed in Nebraska has driven aggressive ash removal and replacement programs since the mid-2010s; homeowners with ash trees are encouraged to treat or remove. Dutch elm disease continues to impact American elm populations. Storm-damaged trees can be removed without permit on private property but utility tree work requires coordination with OPPD. Tree-planting programs (ReTree Nebraska, Trees for Omaha) provide subsidized saplings. Douglas County Extension offers diagnostic help. Replacement species are encouraged to favor diversity (oaks, maples, honeylocusts, Kentucky coffeetree, swamp white oak).
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Omaha code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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