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Trees

Columbus, OH · City rule · Reviewed 2026-09-26

You need a Columbus Forestry Permit before removing, pruning, or doing any work within the critical root zone of a public tree.

Official source: Right-of-Way Permit Section Plan Routing ManualSource checked 2026-09-26

More about this rule

The rule in plain language

The city's right-of-way plan routing manual requires a Forestry Permit for any work on or within the critical root zone of a Public Tree, including a public tree identified for removal because of construction.

What to keep in mind

This source governs public trees—generally trees on public property or in the street right-of-way. It does not say that every privately owned yard tree needs a Forestry Permit. Contact Columbus Forestry before work if the property line or tree ownership is unclear.

Official source

Right-of-Way Permit Section Plan Routing Manual

City rule: City of Columbus · 2025-03-18 · Effective 2025-03-18 · Source checked 2026-09-26 · Reviewed 2026-09-26

Civic education, not legal advice. Rules can change.

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