YardCareDirectory

Louisiana Tree Removal Permit Requirements

LOCAL RULES VARY

No statewide requirement. New Orleans and Baton Rouge have significant tree ordinances due to the state's canopy heritage.

Issuing authority: City planning or urban forestry department
Permit Fee
$50–$250
Processing Time
5–15 business days
Protected Species
3
City Rules Listed
2
Protected Species in LA
Live OakBald Cypress (state tree)Southern Magnolia
These species commonly trigger permit requirements or stricter review in Louisiana jurisdictions. Check with your specific city — protections vary by municipality.
Common Exemptions
  • +Dead trees
  • +Trees posing documented hazard
  • +Storm emergency removal

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

Heritage Trees

New Orleans maintains an Exceptional Tree list. Removal of any Exceptional Tree requires City Council approval.

Penalties for Unpermitted Removal

Fines up to $5,000 per protected tree in New Orleans. Replacement at 3:1 ratio may be ordered.

Rules by City in Louisiana

New Orleans

Protected trees (over 12 inches DBH) require permits. Exceptional Trees require council approval.

Fee: $100–$500 depending on tree sizeHistoric district trees are subject to preservation review.
Baton Rouge

Trees in commercial zones and development projects require permits. Residential is generally unregulated.

Fee: $50 feeCoastal wetland buffer rules may apply in parts of the parish.
Tips for Louisiana Homeowners
  1. New Orleans' live oaks are a defining feature of the city — expect significant scrutiny for any removal request.
  2. After Hurricane Katrina, emergency removal protocols became well-established — document storm damage carefully.
Find tree services in Louisiana that handle permits
Licensed professionals know local rules and will pull permits for you.
Tree Services in Louisiana