Forestry Department

The tree the city planted has died or is not thriving. Will the city replace it?

Subdivision street trees and Citizen Cooperative Tree Program trees are warranted for a period of one year after they are planted. If they are dead or dying within this one-year period, the contractor will replace them.

Will the city pick up or chip branches and brush from trees/shrubs located on my property or can I drop them off at SOCRRA?

No. The city does not pick up tree branches or chip brush from trees located on private property. Check with your trash hauler or a private company listed in the phone book. SOCRRA (248) 651- 7840 accepts only grass and leaves.

When is a Tree Removal Permit required?

If trees are on or adjacent to the property, a Tree Removal Permit may be required. Please refer to the following criteria:

Trees in the public street right-of-way

• All trees located between the property line and the street are regulated by the Street Tree Ordinance and require a Tree Removal Permit.
• Application Fee $50

Trees on private property

• All property platted prior to August 3, 1988 is not regulated by the Tree Conservation Ordinance and does not require a Tree Removal Permit.
• All property platted after August 3, 1988, and all unplatted property with trees 6" diameter and larger at 4-1/2' above ground, is regulated by the Tree Conservation Ordinance and requires a Tree Removal Permit.
• Application Fee $90

Exceptions to Tree Removal Permit requirement

• On occupied one-family parcels less than one acre, a permit is not required.
• On occupied one-family parcels one acre or more for construction of appurtenances or structures accessory to existing structures, a permit is not required.
• NOTE: Neither of the above exceptions apply to public right-of-way trees or historic and landmark trees. These trees will require a permit.

Exceptions to tree replacement requirement

• For any unplatted residential parcel, trees located within the area of the footprint of only one principal dwelling or any additions thereto, and within 30' around the dwelling or addition, are not required to be replaced. Furthermore, trees located within any proposed driveway, utility or other site improvement necessary to support the principal dwelling or addition, and the area within 10' of any such improvement, are also not required to be relocated or replaced.

For further information regarding the need for a Tree Removal Permit, contact the Building Department at (248) 656-4615. For Tree Removal Permit requirements, contact the Forestry Division at (248) 656-4673.

What should I do if I have an infestation of gypsy moth caterpillars?

Click here to visit our Gypsy Moth Page for more information about gypsy moth infestation.

What information do you have on the Emerald Ash Borer?

Click here to visit our Emerald Ash Borer Page fore more information.