Do I Need a Permit to Remove a Tree in Minnesota? Here's What You Should Know

Removing a tree sounds simple until you start wondering whether Minnesota (or your city) requires a permit. The rules can be confusing, and they vary widely depending on where you live, the size of the tree, and whether it is considered hazardous.

This guide breaks down everything Minnesota homeowners need to know before removing a tree, including when you do need a permit, when you don’t, and how to avoid fines or delays.

Do You Need a Permit to Remove a Tree in Minnesota?

In many cities, the answer is yes—especially for large, healthy, or protected trees.
In rural areas and small towns, permits are usually not required.

Minnesota does not have a statewide tree-removal permit law. Each city sets its own rules. Some require permits only for certain species. Others regulate tree size or removal within protected areas such as shorelines or wetlands.

Most regulations apply to:

• Large, healthy trees (typically 6–12 inches or more in diameter)
• Trees in protected environmental zones
• Trees on commercial property
• Heritage or landmark trees

If the tree is dead, dying, or dangerous, many cities allow removal without a permit, though documentation may still be required.

When You Typically Do Need a Permit

While ordinances differ by city, a permit is commonly required if the tree is:

1. Healthy and above a certain diameter

Cities often regulate removal of trees larger than 8–12 inches in diameter at breast height (DBH), and even larger thresholds for heritage trees.

2. Located on a lakeshore, riverbank, or wetland

Shoreline zones frequently require approval before any canopy is removed.

3. In a conservation or woodland protection district

Certain developments and sensitive ecological areas have strict canopy rules.

4. On the boulevard or right-of-way

Trees in these locations may be city-owned and require city authorization.

5. A protected species

Some cities protect specific species once they reach a certain size.

When You Usually Do Not Need a Permit

Most Minnesota municipalities allow removal of the following without a permit:

• Dead trees
• Dying trees
• Hazardous or storm-damaged trees
• Ash trees infested with emerald ash borer (EAB)
• Trees on rural properties not subject to local ordinances

Even when a permit is not required, documenting hazardous conditions is a good practice, especially when insurance is involved.

Examples of Minnesota Cities That Often Require Permits

These examples are for general reference; always confirm with your city.

Minneapolis and St. Paul

Permits are often required for large, healthy boulevard trees. Hazardous trees may still require documentation.

Plymouth, Minnetonka, and Eden Prairie

These cities have size thresholds and strong regulations for shoreline or woodland zones.

Lake Minnetonka Communities

Many communities around the lake enforce canopy-protection rules.

Rural Areas and Wright/Meeker County

Typically no permit is required for private-property removals.

TreeTec works regularly in both regulated and unregulated areas and can confirm requirements quickly.

How to Check Your City’s Requirements

Use these simple steps to determine whether a permit is needed:

1. Review your city’s “tree removal permit” page.
2. Contact your city’s public works or forestry department.
3. Send TreeTec your address and we will check for you at no charge.
4. Use your city’s parcel/GIS lookup to determine whether your property falls within a protected area.

In most cases, we can verify permit requirements in under five minutes.

What Happens If You Remove a Tree Without a Required Permit

Potential consequences include:

• Fines
• Mandatory tree replacement
• Delays in real-estate transactions requiring compliance
• Re-inspection or administrative fees

Because cities take canopy protection seriously, verifying requirements beforehand is important.

TreeTec Can Help With Permits and Removal

Whether your project requires a permit or not, TreeTec can:

• Confirm local rules for your address
• Document hazardous or diseased trees
• Provide arborist-supported assessments
• Supply photos and notes required by the city
• Handle removal, cleanup, and hauling

If no permit is required, we can usually schedule removal within 3–7 days, or the same day for hazardous or storm-damaged trees.

Need Help Determining Whether You Need a Permit?

Send us your address and we will confirm your city’s requirements and provide a fast, no-pressure quote.