It depends on where the tree is. Louisville Metro's permit rules apply to trees in the public right-of-way, not to most trees in your own yard.
Trees in your yard
Louisville Metro's tree ordinance focuses on public trees. For trees on your own property, Metro expects homeowners to handle pruning and removal themselves. A few things can still apply: your HOA's rules, a recorded easement, or your suburban city's own ordinance if you live in a small city inside Jefferson County. When in doubt, call your city hall or HOA first.
Trees between the sidewalk and the street
The right-of-way runs from the street to your property line. That usually means the strip between the sidewalk and the curb, but it can reach into your lawn where there's no sidewalk. Under the Louisville Metro Tree Ordinance (LMCO Chapter 102), you need a permit from Urban Forestry to remove, plant or do major pruning on a tree there.
- Removing a right-of-way tree requires a permit, and a replacement tree is required within one year
- No permit is needed for watering, mulching or routine pruning of less than 10% of the canopy
- Emergency pruning of limbs under 4 inches thick that threaten public safety doesn't need a permit
Who pays for street trees?
This surprises a lot of people. Under the ordinance, maintenance of trees in the right-of-way is the responsibility of the adjacent property owner, including removing dead or diseased trees. Metro has grant programs that may help in some cases, such as the Tree Assistance Fund.
How to get a permit
- Call Metro311 (311 or 502-574-5000), or use the Metro311 online portal
- Choose the tree concern option and select Removal, Pruning or Planting Permit
- An ISA-certified arborist from Urban Forestry should contact you within about two weeks
We'll help you sort it out
When we come out for your free estimate, we'll tell you whether the tree looks like it's in the right-of-way so you can check on a permit before work is scheduled. Rules can change, so confirm with Metro311 for your address.
Sources: Louisville Metro Tree Ordinance (LMCO Chapter 102) · Louisville Urban Forestry: permitting · WDRB/WAVE: who pays for public tree removal
Related services: Tree Removal · Tree Trimming & Pruning
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