Memphis Tree Pruning Ordinance and Permit Rules

Parks and Public Spaces Tennessee 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 08, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

In Memphis, Tennessee, tree pruning in public spaces and rights-of-way is governed by city urban-forestry policies and the municipal code. This guide explains when permits are required, who enforces pruning rules, common violations, and step-by-step actions for property owners, contractors, and community groups. It summarizes official sources and explains how to apply, appeal, or report suspected violations. Guidance is current as of February 2026 unless a specific official page shows a later update.

When Permits Are Required

Permits are generally required for pruning, removal, or work on trees located in the public right-of-way, on city-owned property, or when an activity affects tree protection zones during construction. For privately owned trees wholly on private property, standard pruning for health and safety typically does not require a city permit, but rules differ if trees are within the right-of-way or subject to protection by ordinance. Contact the City of Memphis Urban Forestry Division for site-specific determinations Urban Forestry Division[1].

Always confirm right-of-way boundaries before pruning near the street.

Scheduling and Seasonal Restrictions

City guidance may set preferred pruning seasons to protect wildlife and tree health, and to limit work during nesting seasons for protected birds. The municipal code or Urban Forestry guidance should be consulted for any seasonal restrictions or recommended pruning windows.

  • Check seasonal guidance with Urban Forestry for nesting or preservation periods.
  • Call the Urban Forestry Division for timing on permits and inspections. Contact page

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by the City of Memphis through the Urban Forestry Division and related code compliance offices. Specific monetary fines, escalation amounts, and exact time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited municipal pages and should be confirmed directly with the enforcing office or in the municipal code.[2]

  • Enforcer: City of Memphis Urban Forestry Division and Code Enforcement.
  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation (first/repeat/continuing offences): not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, mandatory remediation or replacement, court actions; details not specified on the cited page.
  • Inspections and complaints: file via Urban Forestry or Code Enforcement contact channels.
  • Appeals/review: formal appeal routes may exist through municipal hearing officers or administrative review; specific time limits are not specified on the cited page.
If you are uncertain, stop work and contact Urban Forestry before proceeding.

Applications & Forms

The city provides permit applications and guidance through the Urban Forestry Division and the municipal permit center. The exact form numbers, fees, and online submission links are not specified on the cited Urban Forestry overview page; contact Urban Forestry or the city permit office for the current application and fee schedule.[1]

Common Violations

  • Pruning or removing trees in the public right-of-way without a permit.
  • Failure to follow approved pruning specifications or to obtain required permits during construction.
  • Damaging tree roots, trunks, or structural limbs during excavation or landscaping.

Action Steps

  • Identify whether the tree is in the public right-of-way by contacting Urban Forestry Urban Forestry[1].
  • If required, obtain the tree permit from the city permit office; submit any application, plans, and fee as directed.
  • Use a licensed and insured arborist for work that affects the public right-of-way or protected trees.
  • Keep documentation of permits and approved plans on site and available for inspections.
Permits protect both public infrastructure and the health of the urban tree canopy.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to prune a street tree?
Yes, work on street trees or trees in the public right-of-way typically requires city approval; contact Urban Forestry to confirm and apply.[1]
Who enforces tree protection rules in Memphis?
The City of Memphis Urban Forestry Division and municipal Code Enforcement are responsible for inspections and enforcement actions.[1]
What penalties apply for illegal tree removal?
Specific fines and escalation are not specified on the cited municipal overview; contact the enforcing office or consult the municipal code for numeric penalties.[2]

How-To

  1. Contact the City of Memphis Urban Forestry Division to determine whether the tree is on city property or in the right-of-way and whether a permit is required.[1]
  2. Obtain and complete the city permit application or forms as instructed by Urban Forestry or the permit center.
  3. Submit the application, required documentation (site plan, photos, arborist report if requested), and pay any fees.
  4. Schedule and pass any required inspection before and/or after pruning or removal.
  5. If cited, follow remediation orders, pay assessed fines if any, or file an appeal within the municipal time limits provided on the enforcement notice.

Key Takeaways

  • Always check right-of-way status before pruning.
  • Contact Urban Forestry early to confirm permit needs.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Memphis Urban Forestry Division - official site
  2. [2] Memphis Code of Ordinances - Municode

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