Reno Tree Pruning & Memorial Tree Program - Ordinances

Parks and Public Spaces Nevada 3 Minutes Read · published February 09, 2026 Flag of Nevada

In Reno, Nevada, street, park, and public-right-of-way tree care is governed by municipal rules and administered by city departments. This guide explains typical pruning schedules, who manages public trees, the Memorial Tree Program application path, and how enforcement and appeals work under Reno city ordinances. For exact code language and program details consult the City of Reno municipal code and the Parks and Public Works program pages linked below.City of Reno Municipal Code[1]

Overview of Tree Pruning Schedules

Reno maintains pruning programs for trees in parklands, medians, and the public right-of-way to promote public safety, visibility, and tree health. Pruning frequency depends on species, location, and risk rating assigned by city arborists. Routine pruning schedules, emergency removal, and seasons for crown work are set by the responsible departments and based on arboricultural standards rather than a single fixed annual calendar.

Who Is Responsible

Primary enforcement and operational responsibility typically lies with the City of Reno Public Works division (Forestry/Urban Forestry) for trees in the public right-of-way and Parks, Recreation and Community Services for park trees. Private property tree maintenance is generally the property owner's responsibility unless a public hazard is declared. For program details see the Public Works or Parks program pages.Reno Public Works[2]

Penalties & Enforcement

The municipal code and department procedures govern enforcement. Specific monetary fines, escalation steps, and non-monetary remedies vary by code section and departmental rule; when amounts or schedules are not published on the cited page the text below states that fact and cites the source.

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.[1]
  • Escalation: first offence, repeat, and continuing offence ranges: not specified on the cited page.[1]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: work orders, mandatory corrective pruning or removal, lien placement, and court actions are used as enforcement tools as authorized by municipal code.[1]
  • Enforcers and inspections: Public Works (Forestry), Parks, and Code Enforcement inspect complaints and issue orders; official contacts are on city department pages.Reno Parks[3]
  • Appeals and review: the municipal code sets appeal routes (administrative review or hearing officer/court). Time limits for filing appeals are not specified on the cited page.[1]
If you receive an order, follow the notice instructions and preserve records of communications and receipts.

Applications & Forms

The Memorial Tree Program and requests for park tree plantings are run by Parks, while permits for work in the public right-of-way often require Public Works approval. Specific form names, application numbers, fees, deadlines, and submission methods are not specified on the cited pages and applicants should contact the relevant department to obtain current forms and fee schedules.Memorial Tree Program[3]

Contact Parks before purchasing a tree or plaque to confirm eligibility and site availability.

Common Violations

  • Unauthorized pruning or removal of public trees.
  • Failure to comply with corrective work orders.
  • Obstructing sightlines or utilities by improper pruning.
Always verify whether a tree is on private property or within the public right-of-way before work begins.

Action Steps

  • To request a memorial tree, contact Parks to obtain the application and site approval.
  • For right-of-way pruning or to report hazardous trees, submit a service request to Public Works.
  • If cited, gather photographs, permits, and communication records and follow the appeal instructions on the notice.

FAQ

Who pays for pruning of trees in the public right-of-way?
The City typically maintains public right-of-way trees; private owners are responsible for trees fully on their property. Specific cost-recovery or assessment rules are not specified on the cited page.[1]
Can I plant a memorial tree on park land?
Yes, through the Memorial Tree Program managed by Parks; availability, plaque rules, and fees must be confirmed with Parks.[3]
What should I do if a tree is a hazard?
Report hazardous trees to Public Works for inspection; emergency removals are prioritized by risk.

How-To

  1. Identify whether the tree is on private property, parkland, or the public right-of-way.
  2. Contact the appropriate department: Parks for park or memorial tree requests; Public Works for right-of-way issues and hazardous trees.
  3. Obtain any required approvals or permits before pruning or planting; submit forms to the department identified when you contact them.
  4. If you receive an enforcement notice, follow the instructions, complete ordered work or file an appeal within the time specified on the notice.

Key Takeaways

  • Public trees are managed by city departments; private owners manage private trees.
  • Apply first for memorial trees—do not plant before approval.
  • Report hazards to Public Works immediately.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Reno Municipal Code - Code of Ordinances
  2. [2] City of Reno Public Works
  3. [3] City of Reno Parks - Memorial Tree Program

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