Tree Work Permit

You need a Tree Work Permit to work on or within 50 feet of a street tree. This rule is for everyone. It includes people, businesses and contractors. It applies to trees on New York City property.

Here are some examples of work that need a permit:

• Installing a sidewalk
• Installing a driveway
• Installing a utility line
• Pruning a tree
• Hanging holiday lights
• Extending the tree planting space

You may get a permit after a review. The permit will be given no earlier than five business days before you start work. You will need to pay for all tree work.

• The company must have the right insurance. Bigger projects may need a performance bond.

• At least one person must be a certified arborist or have similar experience. Parks & Recreation will decide if the experience is enough.

• Some work, like using pesticides, needs extra certifications, licenses or permits.

• If the permit is for construction, include these documents:

  • A letter explaining the project, why tree work is needed and the Department of Buildings Job Number.
  • A survey or layout showing where the trees are.
  • A project design plan (14" x 17" drawings are best).
  • A Builders Pavement Plan.
  • Utility or vault installation drawings (if needed).
  • Site photos.
  • Any other plans showing the conflict between City trees and the project.

• It is against the law to damage, remove or harm a street tree or park tree.
• Breaking these rules is a misdemeanor.
• You can be fined up to $15,000.
• You can be put in jail for up to one year.

1. Read the NYC Parks instructions before you apply.

1. Call 311 and ask for a Tree Work Permit to get the application materials.
2. Mail or fax the application and required documents to the Borough Forestry Office. The address is with the application materials.
3. A Parks & Recreation Forester will visit the site to check if the proposed work is acceptable and make changes if needed. The Forester will talk to you about the proposal.
4. If a Tree Work Permit is given, it will be mailed or faxed to you.
5. You must finish the work within the time given on the permit.
6. Tell the Borough Forestry Office at least 72 hours before you start the work.
7. After the work is done, tell the Borough Forestry Office to set up a final inspection.
8. A Parks & Recreation Forester will visit the site to check if the work meets the standards. If it does, a final sign-off will be given. If not, you may have to pay for more work or penalties.