Pearl, MS Tree Protection: Tree Replacement Requirements (2026)

Tree replacement is not required after residential tree removal in Rankin County — consistent with the absence of a private-property tree removal permit system. Commercial and multi-family development is different: each municipality's zoning ordinance landscape chapter typically requires a minimum number of trees per acre, parking lot shade trees (often one tree per 10-15 parking spaces), street frontage trees, and buffer yard plantings between commercial and residential zones. Brandon, Pearl, and Flowood apply these standards at site plan review. If a developer removes trees during grading, the landscape plan governs replanting. Approved species lists favor native Mississippi hardwoods — southern live oak, willow oak, bald cypress, sweetgum, and native magnolias. Minimum caliper for replacement planting is typically 2-2.5 inches. Pearl River Valley Water Supply District may require replanting on reservoir-area developments. FEMA floodway projects along the Pearl River may require vegetation restoration as part of permit conditions. Fee-in-lieu tree fund programs are not established in Rankin municipalities.