Let’s face it; that tree carcass isn’t doing much for your property’s appearance. You want to cut it down, but you may wonder if you need a tree removal permit first. As your trusted source for tree services in Farmington Hills, MI, JCS Tree Care Professionals shares more here.
What Might Warrant a Removal Permit For Your Tree?
You’ve discovered that your county does, in fact, have a tree removal application process. Is it required for your personal property? Let’s dive into some scenarios where you might need a permit before you schedule a tree removal job.
Nationally Owned or Landmarked Trees
The Forest Service’s tree-cutting guidelines state that property owners should request approval to chop down protected trees.
What is a protected tree? It’s a specimen owned by a national agency, like a national park, or otherwise used as a community landmark. Typically, that designation excludes specimens on your private land.
Ecosystem Preservation
Is part of your property enmeshed with a rare or important local ecosystem? Would removing a mature tree from that setting have a negative environmental impact? If so, you might need a tree removal permit.
This is certainly true if the specimen grows in one of the following protected Michigan ecosystems:
- Wilderness areas
- Natural rivers
- Coastal wetlands
- Lake islands
- Shorebird habitats
Species and Age
Michigan protects some species without question, so you could incur a fine for removing them. Verify your tree’s species. The state protects species like the dwarf huckleberry, and numerous other tree species also fall under the threatened or endangered umbrella.
Additionally, localities may protect mature or ancient trees due to their historical value. Make sure the tree you want to remove isn’t among those local landmarks.
Structure Proximity
Does the tree grow near or on your neighbor’s property? Your local zoning laws might mandate that you okay tree removal with them first.
Even if the tree directly threatens your property, you must still honor these ordinances. Honor your neighbor’s wishes before scheduling anything.
Do You Need a Tree Removal Permit in Farmington Hills, Michigan?
Let’s consider whether the tree meets the following protections:
- A governmental agency owns it.
- It is a part of a rare ecosystem.
- It is a local historical landmark.
- It contributes to an endangered species’ survival.
- It grows on someone else’s property.
Do you still need a permit to remove it? Well, it depends on Farmington Hills, Michigan’s ordinances and municipal regulations. For example, these rules say that property owners with land touching public property can remove or maintain trees with permits. The removal should comply with the city manager’s arboreal requirement notices.
Things get a little murky when discussing whether to apply for a tree removal permit, though. Many factors determine the removal’s legality. You’re better off scheduling an arborist evaluation to comply with local ordinances.
Ask JCS Tree Care Professionals for Tree Removal Guidance
JCS Tree Care Professionals does this every day. Our crew can determine whether you need a tree removal permit, tell you how to get one, and help with other tasks, like trimming a trees or fertilizing a tree. Call 248-965-9035 today for a free service estimate!
