Living rule book
NYC street tree rules on one block
Each number marks a rule. Pick a number to zoom in and read the rule with its official source. Open it to read the full rule page.
- Not allowed
- Allowed
- What the rule is about
- Distance in the rule
Plain-language summaries. The official text linked with each rule is the law. Not legal advice.
All rules on this street
The same rules as the drawing, in order.
1. Parks cares for street trees
Allowed · NYC Admin Code § 18-104
Planting and caring for trees in the street is the job of the Parks Department alone, except for trees that an owner cares for under § 18-105.
Official sources
Open the official source →2. Removing a street tree needs a permit
Allowed · NYC Admin Code § 18-107(a), (e)
Anyone who plans to remove a tree under Parks’ care must get a Parks permit first. Replacement trees must equal at least 1 caliper inch for each caliper inch removed.
Official sources
Open the official source →3. Cutting down a tree without consent
Not allowed · NYC Admin Code § 18-129
No one may cut, remove or destroy a tree on public property under Parks without written consent from Parks. It is a misdemeanor, with a fine of up to $15,000, up to 1 year in jail, or both, plus a civil penalty of up to $10,000.
Official sources
Read the rule →4. Pruning a street tree
Not allowed · 56 RCNY § 1-04(b)(1)(i)
No one may cut or destroy a tree under Parks without permission from the Parks Commissioner. Destroying includes killing, carving, pruning or any other physical damage to the tree.
Official sources
Open the official source →5. Nothing nailed or written on trees
Not allowed · 56 RCNY § 1-04(b)(1)(ii)
No one may deface or write on a tree under Parks.
Official sources
Open the official source →6. No-parking notice before tree removal
Allowed · NYC Admin Code § 18-148
At least 2 days before Parks starts temporary parking limits to remove trees, it must post the start date, the place and the estimated end date on the street, unless the work follows existing rules such as alternate side parking, or public safety needs the limits at once.
Official sources
Open the official source →7. Sidewalk next to the tree
Not allowed · NYC Admin Code § 7-210
The owner of property next to a sidewalk must keep it reasonably safe, including repairing defective flags, and can be liable for injuries if not. That liability does not apply to owner-occupied one-, two- or three-family homes used only as homes.
Official sources
Open the official source →8. Trees downed in a storm
Not allowed · NYC Admin Code § 18-142
After a severe storm, Parks must post on its website how to report downed or damaged trees and downed wires, and must follow a plan, made with the power companies, for trees that fell on live wires, including finding out when they are safe to remove.
Official sources
Open the official source →
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