Lincoln Tree Permits Guide - Planting & Removal

Land Use and Zoning Nebraska 4 Minutes Read · published February 09, 2026 Flag of Nebraska

Lincoln, Nebraska property owners and contractors must follow city rules when planting, trimming, or removing trees in the public right-of-way and on city property. This guide explains when a permit is needed, which city office enforces tree rules, how to apply, typical timelines, and common violations. It summarizes current official sources and provides direct links to the City of Lincoln forestry and municipal code resources so you can find forms and contact details quickly. Use this article to prepare permit applications, avoid penalties, and know appeal options if the city denies a request.

When permits are required

Generally, work that affects trees on public property, the boulevard (between sidewalk and curb), or that may impact the root zone of street trees typically requires prior approval by Lincoln Parks & Recreation - Forestry. Private-property work that affects only private trees may not need a city permit unless the work affects the public right-of-way or violates municipal code protections. For the official permitting rules and current application process, consult the city forestry permit page City Forestry - Tree Permits[1].

Always check whether the tree is on the boulevard or your private yard before scheduling work.

How permits are reviewed

  • Submit a completed tree permit application and site plan to the Forestry Division.
  • Forestry staff inspect the tree and surrounding conditions to confirm species, size, and public-safety concerns.
  • Decisions are typically issued after inspection; processing times are not specified on the cited page.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement for unauthorized pruning, removal, or damage to public trees is handled by the City of Lincoln Parks & Recreation - Forestry Division and through municipal code enforcement mechanisms. Specific fine amounts, daily penalties, or codified monetary ranges are not specified on the cited municipal code summary page; consult the municipal code for any numeric penalties or contact Forestry for current fee schedules. If the municipal code cites explicit fines or escalating penalties, those are listed in the municipal code text and administrative rules Lincoln Municipal Code[2].

Unauthorized removal or substantial injury to a public tree can lead to city enforcement actions.
  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offences - not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal/replacement orders, stop-work orders, administrative citations, and potential court action as authorized by municipal code.
  • Enforcer and complaints: Parks & Recreation - Forestry Division handles inspections, complaints, and initial enforcement; use the Forestry contact page for reports and scheduling inspections.
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes and time limits are governed by municipal code or administrative rules; specific time limits are not specified on the cited page and should be verified with the Forestry Division or City Clerk.

Applications & Forms

  • Tree Permit Application: available from the City Forestry permit page; the application name and any form number are provided on that page City Forestry - Tree Permits[1].
  • Fees: any fee schedule for planting, removal, or mitigation is published on the Forestry page or in a separate fee schedule; fees are not specified on the cited page.
  • Submission and deadlines: submit applications to Parks & Recreation - Forestry per instructions on the city page; specific submission deadlines are not specified on the cited page.

Action steps: verify tree location (private vs public), review the Forestry permit page, submit the application with a site plan, schedule the inspection, obtain written approval before work, and keep records of permit approval.

Common violations

  • Removing or pruning a boulevard or street tree without a permit.
  • Damage from construction activity within the root zone without approved protection measures.
  • Failing to comply with a city removal or replacement order.
Document permits and inspections before and after work to avoid disputes and enforcement.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in my yard?
Only if the tree is on public property or the work affects the public right-of-way; consult the City Forestry permit page for specifics and to confirm property lines and required approvals. City Forestry - Tree Permits[1]
How long does permit review take?
Processing and inspection timelines are not specified on the cited pages; contact Forestry for current processing times and scheduling.
What penalties apply for unauthorized tree removal?
Monetary fines and non-monetary sanctions may apply; specific amounts and escalation rules are not specified on the cited municipal code summary page—see the municipal code for details. Municipal Code[2]

How-To

  1. Identify whether the tree is on private property or in the public right-of-way.
  2. Contact Parks & Recreation - Forestry to confirm permit requirements and to request an inspection if needed.
  3. Complete and submit the tree permit application and site plan per the Forestry page instructions.
  4. Pay any required fee as listed by the city fee schedule.
  5. Schedule and pass the city inspection; obtain written approval before performing removal or trimming.
  6. After work, retain permits and inspection records and comply with any replacement or mitigation orders.

Key Takeaways

  • Public/right-of-way trees usually require city permits and inspections.
  • Contact Parks & Recreation - Forestry early to avoid enforcement or delays.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Lincoln - Parks & Recreation Forestry tree permit page
  2. [2] Lincoln Municipal Code - Code of Ordinances (search for tree and right-of-way provisions)

Categories

General Governance and Administration Public Safety Public Health and Welfare Land Use and Zoning Housing and Building Standards Transportation Environmental Protection Parks and Public Spaces Business and Consumer Protection Taxation and Finance Labor and Employment Education Civil Rights and Equity Elections and Campaign Finance Events and Special Uses Signs and Advertising Utilities and Infrastructure Technology and Data