Grand Rapids Tree Code in Title 10 of the City Code protects all trees in the public right-of-way, including the planting strip between sidewalk and curb. Removing, topping, or pruning a street tree without a permit from the City Forester is prohibited even if the tree fronts your property.
Property owners must request city action through 311 to remove dead or hazardous street trees. The Forestry Division evaluates the tree and either schedules removal or refuses. Private removal requires a written permit and replacement at one-to-one or larger caliper. Approved species are listed on the City Forester planting list, with diversity rules limiting any single genus. Construction near street trees needs tree protection fencing at the dripline. The ordinance supports the Strategic Plan goal of expanding canopy in equity-priority neighborhoods.
Unauthorized street tree removal carries a civil infraction up to 500 dollars plus tree replacement value, often calculated by the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers formula and reaching several thousand dollars per mature tree.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Kent County.
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