Carmel, IN Tree Protection: Tree Removal Permits (2026)

Whether a tree-removal permit is required in Carmel depends on where the tree stands. For a healthy tree located entirely on private property and away from public ways, Carmel imposes no general removal permit — though the owner still must comply with the hazardous-tree, stump, and debris duties in § 6-222(b)(4). Trees and parts of trees in the public right-of-way (commonly the area between the street and the sidewalk or property line) are regulated by City Code § 6-64, which subjects planting and removal there to the rules, specifications, and approval of the Carmel Urban Forestry Committee; the City and public utilities retain the right to access and to reasonably remove right-of-way trees that impede necessary work, and utilities remain responsible for replacing street trees they remove unless the City directs otherwise. On development and subdivision sites, removal is governed by the City's Unified Development Ordinance Tree Preservation provisions: no construction activity, installation of improvements, or clearing of vegetation may occur in areas designated as a Tree Preservation Easement, and clearing within a platted or dedicated landscape easement requires approval from the City of Carmel Urban Forester. The UDO also requires shade/street trees along rights-of-way and bufferyards meeting City standards. Practically, anyone planning to remove right-of-way or development-site trees should contact the Urban Forester or Department of Community Services first to confirm whether approval, permitting, or replacement is required.