Reno Tree Planting & Removal Permit Rules

Land Use and Zoning Nevada 3 Minutes Read · published February 09, 2026 Flag of Nevada

In Reno, Nevada, tree planting and removal on public and private property are governed by city standards and permit requirements administered by municipal departments. Property owners, contractors and landscapers must follow planting specifications, setback rules and approved species lists for public-rights-of-way and may need a tree removal permit before removing trees on city property or protected street trees. For questions about permits, inspections or protected tree status, contact the City of Reno Forestry Division: City of Reno Forestry Division[1].

Standards for Planting

Reno requires that trees planted in the public right-of-way or where interfacing with city infrastructure meet spacing, species and planting‑detail standards intended to protect utilities, sidewalks and sightlines. Private landscape plantings must also avoid interfering with public improvements and follow any neighborhood or subdivision covenants where applicable.

  • Setbacks and spacing: follow city spacing and sightline requirements when planting near sidewalks and roads.
  • Approved species: use species approved for street and park planting to reduce conflicts with utilities and infrastructure.
  • Planting details: root barriers, planting depth, and mulch requirements should match city guidance.

When a Permit Is Required

Permits are typically required to remove or significantly prune trees on city property, within the public right-of-way, or for protected trees identified by local code. Removal of trees on private property may require a permit if the tree impacts public safety or is within a regulated setback.

  • Removal permits: required for trees on city land, in the right-of-way, or protected species.
  • Inspection: city staff may inspect trees before and after removal to verify compliance.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of Reno enforces tree planting and removal rules through its Forestry Division and Community Development/Planning departments. Specific monetary fines and civil penalties for unauthorized removal or damage to protected trees are not specified on the cited city Forestry page; see the cited source for enforcement contacts and procedures.[1]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat or continuing offence ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: may include stop-work orders, restoration or replacement planting, and civil enforcement actions.
  • Enforcer and complaints: Forestry Division and Planning/Building handle inspections and complaints; contact links are in Resources below.
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes exist through city administrative hearing or planning review processes; specific time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page.
If you suspect a protected tree has been removed without a permit, report it promptly to Forestry to preserve enforcement options.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes permit applications and information through its Forestry and Planning pages. The cited Forestry page provides contact and procedural guidance but does not list a specific downloadable Tree Removal Permit form or fee schedule on that page; see Resources for department pages and the municipal code for forms and fee details.[1]

How-To

  1. Determine whether the tree is on public property or private property and whether it is designated as protected.
  2. Contact the City of Reno Forestry Division to confirm permit requirements and request inspection if needed.
  3. Complete any required removal or planting permit application and submit it per department instructions, including any photos or arborist reports.
  4. Schedule and pass any city inspections; comply with remediation or replacement planting if ordered.
  5. If fined or cited, follow the appeal process indicated in the enforcement notice or contact the City Clerk for hearing procedures.
Removing or damaging trees in the right-of-way without approval can lead to enforcement and restoration orders.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my private property?
Permits depend on the tree location and protected status; contact Forestry or Planning to confirm whether a permit is required.
How long does a tree removal permit take to process?
Processing times vary by workload and complexity; the cited page does not provide a standard processing time.
What penalties apply if I remove a protected tree without permission?
Monetary fines and restoration orders may apply, but specific fine amounts are not specified on the cited Forestry page.

Key Takeaways

  • Check whether the tree is in the right-of-way or protected before acting.
  • Contact the City of Reno Forestry Division early to confirm permit needs.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Reno Forestry Division

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