YardCareDirectory

Kentucky Tree Removal Permit Requirements

LOCAL RULES VARY

No statewide requirement. Louisville has the most developed ordinance in the state.

Issuing authority: City urban forestry or planning department
Protected Species
3
City Rules Listed
2
Protected Species in KY
Yellow Poplar (state tree)White OakBlue Ash
These species commonly trigger permit requirements or stricter review in Kentucky jurisdictions. Check with your specific city — protections vary by municipality.
Common Exemptions
  • +Private property trees in most areas
  • +Dead trees
  • +Imminent hazard

Exemptions still often require documentation. Bring photos, contractor assessments, or an ISA-certified arborist report to support a hazard or disease claim.

Rules by City in Kentucky

Louisville

Protected trees (over 8 inches DBH) require permits in certain districts. Street trees are city property.

Fee: $35 permit feeLouisville Metro has an urban forestry master plan.
Lexington

Significant trees in planned unit developments may require permits. Otherwise largely unregulated.

Fayette County rules apply in unincorporated areas.
Tips for Kentucky Homeowners
  1. Outside Louisville, most private property tree removal in Kentucky is unregulated at the city level.
  2. Coal country areas may have land reclamation rules affecting large-scale tree clearing.
Find tree services in Kentucky that handle permits
Licensed professionals know local rules and will pull permits for you.
Tree Services in Kentucky