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

Tree-removal permitting in Fishers is centered on the Urban Forestry Program (§§ 95.30-95.35) administered by the Tree Board. 'Street trees' are defined in § 95.30 as trees on real estate owned or controlled by the city and trees within a dedicated landscape easement. Section 95.33(B) provides that 'no person shall remove a street tree unless the Tree Board has issued the proper permit,' with an exception that 'no permit is required in an emergency situation'; permits specify the work, are valid up to 60 days, and may be extended 30 days. Section 95.34(A) makes it a violation to plant trees, shrubs, or other plant material within any public right-of-way, required landscape easement, or municipal property until a Tree Board permit is obtained, and authorizes the Board to refuse a permit that would create a danger or nuisance. Removed right-of-way trees must be cut flush with the ground unless the stump is removed, with no brush left on a city street overnight (§ 95.34(E)). For development and redevelopment, UDO § 6.7.3.C requires reasonable measures to minimize tree destruction, protective orange fencing at least three feet outside the drip line during construction, and a tree-protection zone where construction and storage are prohibited; UDO § 6.7.2.D.2.c requires the landscape plan to note every tree six inches in diameter or greater and whether it is to be retained or removed. A healthy tree on private property that poses no public hazard does not require a city removal permit.