YardCareDirectory

Ohio Tree Removal Permit Requirements

LOCAL RULES VARY

No statewide requirement. Cleveland and Columbus have the most developed local ordinances.

Issuing authority: City urban forestry or planning department
Protected Species
3
City Rules Listed
3
Protected Species in OH
Buckeye (state tree)White OakAmerican Beech
These species commonly trigger permit requirements or stricter review in Ohio jurisdictions. Check with your specific city — protections vary by municipality.
Common Exemptions
  • +Private property trees in most cities
  • +Dead and diseased trees

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 Ohio

Cleveland

Street trees are city property. Trees in development zones require permits. Trees in conservation areas require approval.

Fee: $50 per treeCuyahoga County rules may apply in unincorporated areas.
Columbus

Street trees require permits. Significant trees in regulated areas require permits.

Fee: $40 feeEmerald ash borer protocols affect all ash removal.
Cincinnati

Heritage trees and street trees require permits. Private property over 24 inches DBH in certain districts require notification.

Fee: $35 per treeHamilton County rules apply outside city limits.
Tips for Ohio Homeowners
  1. Ohio's buckeye tree is culturally significant — many cities protect notable specimens.
  2. Ash tree removal statewide follows emerald ash borer quarantine protocols.
Find tree services in Ohio that handle permits
Licensed professionals know local rules and will pull permits for you.
Tree Services in Ohio