Dearborn Committed To Protecting Trees; Permits Needed For Tree Removal

Press release from the City of Dearborn:

The City of Dearborn is committed to maintaining its tree canopy by protecting trees where possible and providing new trees as needed. You can join in this “green” campaign.

Planting and preservation of trees keeps neighborhoods attractive, reduces energy consumption and supports a healthier environment.

Trees in residential areas are associated with higher property values, lower crime rates and reduced traffic speeds.

It is a crime to remove certain-sized trees without a permit

Homeowners may not know that they must apply for a tree removal permit and receive approval from the City before taking action, if the tree is a certain size.

Property owners are prohibited from removing any tree that is 16 inches in diameter measured 4 feet above grade without first contacting the City. Removing such a tree without City approval is punishable by a $500 fine and up to 93 days in jail as a misdemeanor per tree.

Applying for a tree removal permit is free, but permits must be accompanied by a report from a certified arborist detailing the tree’s health, size and species.

In select situations, healthy trees may be permitted to be removed. The city requires homeowners to obtain a permit and to plant a new tree on their property or pay about $200 into the city’s tree planting fund.

However, if the City accepts an arborist’s decision that a tree is dead or dying, then the tree will not need to be replaced. A permit application is still required.

If you notice suspicious tree-cutting behavior in your neighborhood, contact the City at 313-943-2150 (or 313-943-2241 after hours and weekends).

Asking questions can help support the city’s green canopy by ensuring a permit has been obtained and the tree’s condition has been reviewed.

City offers affordable trees for homeowners

Residents can order trees for planting on the easement. Trees will be planted in the fall, as this timing supports survival rates. The City subsidizes the cost. The 2021 price has not yet been set. Purchasing a tree from the City includes planting, follow-up care, and a one-year warranty. More details will come in the summer 2021.

Contact us• To report a suspicious tree removal: (313) 943-2688 or (313) 943-2150• To report suspicious tree removal on weekends/after hours: (313) 943-2241• To order an easement tree: (313) 943-2107• To apply for a mandatory tree removal permit: (313) 943-2688 or 313-943-2150 or visit www.cityofdearborn.org

*****

This press release was produced by the City of Dearborn. The views expressed here are the author’s own.