Shreveport Tree Permits & Ordinances Guide

Land Use and Zoning Louisiana 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 10, 2026 Flag of Louisiana

This guide explains how tree planting and removal are regulated in Shreveport, Louisiana, who enforces rules, and what steps property owners and contractors should take. It summarizes typical permitting triggers, application pathways, complaint and inspection routes, and enforcement outcomes so you can act promptly when planning removals, new plantings, or disputes involving trees in the public right-of-way or on private property.

Contact the city forestry or public works office before pruning or removing trees that touch the right-of-way.

When a permit is likely required

  • Work on or within the public right-of-way, including park trees.
  • Removal of specimen or protected trees where local ordinance designates protection.
  • Tree work affecting stormwater, utilities, or historic districts.

Eligibility, definitions of protected trees, and whether a permit is required vary by circumstance. If your project affects the city right-of-way or is near utility lines, start by contacting the city department listed under Resources below.

Penalties & Enforcement

Shreveport enforces tree, vegetation, and right-of-way rules through city departments; specific penalty amounts and procedural fines are not specified on the official pages referenced in Resources below.

  • Fines: not specified on the cited pages.
  • Escalation: whether first-offence, repeat, or continuing fines apply is not specified on the cited pages.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: common actions include stop-work orders, restoration or replanting orders, and civil court enforcement; exact remedies are not specified on the cited pages.
  • Enforcer: typically the City Department responsible for Public Works, Forestry, or Code Enforcement handles inspections and tickets; use the official contact links in Resources.
  • Appeals and review: formal appeal routes and time limits are not specified on the cited pages; ask the enforcing department for appeal procedures and deadlines when you receive a notice.
  • Inspections and complaints: file a complaint or request an inspection through the city department listed in Resources.
If you receive a notice, act quickly to inquire about appeal deadlines and permit options.

Applications & Forms

Official permit forms or application numbers for tree planting or removal are not published on a single consolidated page; applicants should contact the city forestry or public works office for the correct application, fee schedule, and submittal method.

How to apply and practical steps

  • Pre-application: identify whether the tree is on private property, in the public right-of-way, or in a protected area.
  • Contact the city department to request the specific permit form and fee schedule.
  • Prepare documentation: site plan or photo, species and diameter, reason for removal, and proposed replacement or mitigation if required.
  • Pay fees and submit application as directed; keep receipts and confirmation.
  • Schedule inspection if required and comply with any conditions; obtain written permit before commencing work.

Common violations

  • Removing or severely pruning a tree in the right-of-way without prior permit.
  • Failing to obtain approval for removal of trees designated as protected.
  • Not following stop-work or restoration orders from the city.
Document the condition of trees with photos before any work to support permit requests or appeals.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property?
The requirement depends on whether the tree is protected or in the public right-of-way; contact the city forestry or public works office for a determination.
Who inspects and enforces tree rules in Shreveport?
The City department that manages public works, forestry, or code enforcement typically inspects and issues notices; see Resources for contacts.
What if a neighbor cuts a tree that I believe is protected?
Report the matter to the city enforcement office so they can investigate and, if needed, issue remedies.

How-To

  1. Identify the tree location and ownership (private parcel or public right-of-way).
  2. Contact the city forestry or public works office to confirm whether a permit is required.
  3. Obtain and complete the required application, include photos and a site plan if requested.
  4. Pay applicable fees and submit the application by the method the city specifies.
  5. Schedule and pass any inspection, receive the permit in writing, then proceed with work per permit conditions.
Always get written approval before removing trees in the right-of-way.

Key Takeaways

  • Contact the city before removing or altering trees near the right-of-way.
  • Permit forms and fee details are provided by the enforcing department.
  • If you receive a notice, enquire immediately about appeal deadlines and compliance steps.

Help and Support / Resources

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