YardCareDirectory

Michigan Tree Removal Permit Requirements

LOCAL RULES VARY

No statewide permit. Local ordinances vary. Emerald ash borer regulations affect how ash trees must be handled statewide.

Issuing authority: City or township planning or parks department
Protected Species
3
City Rules Listed
3
Protected Species in MI
Eastern White Pine (state tree)Sugar MapleAmerican Beech
These species commonly trigger permit requirements or stricter review in Michigan jurisdictions. Check with your specific city — protections vary by municipality.
Common Exemptions
  • +Private property trees in most jurisdictions
  • +Dead and diseased trees
  • +Storm damage

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 Michigan

Detroit

Street trees are city property. Private trees near ROW require notification in some districts.

Fee: No standard feeDetroit's Forestry division manages street trees.
Ann Arbor

Trees over 6 inches DBH require permits. Heritage trees require Planning Commission review.

Fee: $50–$200Ann Arbor has an 18% canopy cover target and enforces actively.
Grand Rapids

Street trees require permits. Private property trees in conservation districts require approval.

Fee: $35 permit feeRiparian buffer rules apply near Grand River tributaries.
Tips for Michigan Homeowners
  1. Michigan's emerald ash borer quarantine means ash debris cannot cross county lines without treatment.
  2. Ann Arbor is among the stricter Michigan cities for private property tree removal.
Find tree services in Michigan that handle permits
Licensed professionals know local rules and will pull permits for you.
Tree Services in Michigan