Jefferson County, AL Tree Protection: Tree Removal Permits (2026)

Birmingham manages street trees and right-of-way trees through the Parks and Recreation Department and City Arborist. Removal of street trees requires city authorization - residents cannot unilaterally remove them. On private property, Birmingham has limited tree regulation outside historic districts, where the Historic Preservation Commission may review significant tree removal. Mountain Brook has a comprehensive tree preservation ordinance (Code §129-10) requiring permits for removal of trees over 6 inches DBH (diameter at breast height) on private property, with tree commission review and 2:1 replacement ratio common. Vestavia Hills Code maintains tree protection on city property and significant trees (over 12 inches DBH) in front yards and public view. Homewood and Hoover have more limited tree ordinances focused on public property and new development. Alabama has no statewide private-property tree removal mandate (unlike Florida's more aggressive protections). The 2011 tornado outbreak that struck Pratt City, Pleasant Grove, Concord, and other Jefferson County communities destroyed thousands of mature trees; reforestation efforts have continued. Birmingham is a Tree City USA participant. Mature oaks, pecans, and magnolias in neighborhoods like Highland Park, Forest Park, Mountain Brook, and Homewood are often informally protected by HOAs and neighborhood conservation covenants.