South Bend requires a free permit before removing, pruning, or planting any tree in the public tree lawn between curb and sidewalk, issued by the Forestry office under Section 19-17. Trees inside your private yard need no city permit.
The permit that exists in South Bend is narrow and specific to the tree lawn, the grass strip between curb and sidewalk. Under Chapter 19, Article 1, Division 2, Section 19-17, the fronting property owner is responsible for that tree but must obtain a permit before removing, pruning, or planting it. The City Forester, within Venues Parks & Arts under the Board of Park Commissioners, evaluates the request; permits carry no fee, are valid one year, and let the owner or a licensed arborist do the work. Only city residents with a valid street address qualify. No permit reaches a tree standing inside a private yard. Request one from the Forestry office at 574-299-4766.
None for a tree inside your yard. Removing, pruning, or planting a tree-lawn tree without the Section 19-17 permit violates city code and can bring enforcement from the Forestry office.
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