Permit Application FAQs
How do I apply for Tree Work and Tree Removal permits?
All permit applications for the NYC Department of Parks, including Tree Work and Construction Permits, can be applied for through the Tree Work Permit and Plan Review Application on the nycgovparks.org website. Make sure you have the right materials when applying for your permit.
Does my construction work require a tree permit?
Any construction work within 50’ of a street tree (or other City-owned tree will require a Tree Protection Permit. If your work requires pruning, guying branches, digging/ excavating, or any construction within a street tree’s CRZ, you will need additional permits.
What are the types of Tree Work Permits and which do I need to apply for?
Here’s a list of common Tree Work Permit types. You will often need to apply for more than one permit for a project. These permits apply only to city-owned trees, though other permits may be required for privately owned trees. See Parks guidance on Tree Work Types.
Tree Removal Permit - For removing a street tree.
Tree Pruning Permit - For Trimming, shaping, or cutting branches of a street tree.
Stump Removal Permit - For removing a street tree stump within City rights-of-way.
Tree Planting Permit - For planting a new street tree (spring or fall planting seasons only).
DOB Zoning Required Planting - Plantings required to satisfy DOB zoning or new construction requirements. See Plan Reviews for more detailed info.
Excavation/Construction Near Trees Permit - For digging, trenching, or any construction work within 50 feet of a street tree.
Sidewalk or Curb Work Permit - For sidewalk or curb repairs or installations adjacent to a street tree.
Hanging Lights/Decorations Installation or Removal Permit - For installing lighting, signage, or decorations on or near a street tree.
Tree Bed Expansion or Modification Permit – For enlarging or altering an existing tree bed.
Voluntary Tree Planting - Planting a street tree at your own expense without a legal planting requirement. Reach out for assistance free of charge! Thanks for greening our city.
Root Zone Work Permit - For any work that may disturb the CRZ of a tree.
Installation or Removal of Sidewalk/Paving - Installing, repairing, or removing sidewalk or paving adjacent to a street tree.
Emergency Tree Work Permit - See “How do I immediately prune or remove a dangerous tree?” FAQ below
Transplant Removal Permit - Moving a street tree to a new location (spring or fall planting seasons only).
What documentation do I need before applying for permits?
All permits will require the submission of:
Basic project details – contact info, exact tree location
Work scope – type of tree work, # trees affected
Photos - of site and all trees, must be in color, Streetview photos will not be accepted
Construction related permit applications may require:
DOB information – BIS number, build type
The attainment of a Parks Plan number
Plans – Architectural drawings, site plan (with CRZs shown), planting plan, BPP, Pre-construction survey
Arborist report – can expedite your permit request, arborist must be ISA-certified and their credentials and contact information must be provided
Tree guard permits:
The tree guard design
How much will my fine for tree destruction or tree damage cost?
This will vary from a few thousand dollars to hundreds of thousands, depending on the extent of the damage, tree species, size and location. Schedule a consultation to ensure you’re paying the lowest fine, and review alternatives to payment. See PDF: NYC Tree Valuation Protocol
How do I immediately prune or remove a dangerous tree?
If the tree is posing an immediate threat, like actively falling or blocking traffic, call 911. If the work is pressing, but not an emergency, submit a NYC Parks online Tree Service Request page and select “Hazardous/ Poor Tree Condition” or submit a 311 request. Either way, be prepared to describe the issue and the exact location of the tree.
What is CRZ?
CRZ stands for Critical Root Zone, which is the area of soil around the trunk where the roots most crucial to the tree's structural stability and health are located. The NYC Department of Parks calculates the CRZ as 1’ from the trunk of the tree for every 1” of the DBH, or Diameter at Breast Height (4.5’). If you are measuring the CRZ without a D-tape, use calipers to measure the trunk’s widest diameter at 4.5’ above the ground, discounting the root flare.
How do I know if a tree is City-owned?
New York City owns all trees within the right of way. This is often the planting strip between the sidewalk and the street, but the right of way often extends beyond the sidewalk. It’s a good idea to check the NYC Tree Map for your tree, though your tree not being listed does not guarantee your tree is not City property. Always check surveys for certainty. Make sure your tree is not within the right-of-way before performing any tree work.
Will NYC Parks prune or remove my tree or stump? When?
Yes, Parks will remove street trees that are dead, dying or hazardous, and remove stumps. The timeline can vary based on severity. Check the NYC Parks Tree Removal and Stump Removal webpage to see upcoming tree work locations, and submit a non-emergency tree removal request.