Tree Trimming and Removal


Sec. 102-28. - Permit required for tree pruning, planting, other actions.
(a) Except for branches less than one-half inch in diameter, it is unlawful for any person to prune, remove, plant, injure or destroy any street or park trees within the city without first applying for and obtaining a written permit from the City...

Complete Code on Trees, Shrubs, and other Plants

Tree Forms

These forms can be downloaded, printed, filled out, and returned to the Engineering Department at City Hall.

  1. tree branch removal request form
  2. tree removal permit form

Please read the following conditions for any tree trimming or removal request:

 

  1. All tree work is scheduled on a “safety first” basis.
  2. All tree work is subject to the annual limits of the City of La Porte budget for this type of work.
  3. After safety issues are considered and evaluated by an arborist, tree work will be scheduled on a first come, first served basis.
  4. Neither the City of La Porte, nor its agents, are responsible for damage or for correcting damages to the resident’s lot or lawn relating to the resident requested removal.
  5. Residents are responsible for restoring the lot (e.g. correcting damage resulting from the removal) within four (4) weeks.
  6. Written Tree Commission approval is required before planting of new trees/shubs/plants or removal of trees/branches measuring over 4 inches in diameter. 
  7. Only that tree or trees shall be pruned or removed which the City determines as being dead or dangerous will be physically marked.
  8. Cost of pruning or removal shall be borne entirely by the property owner, and the City of La Porte shall assume no liability for any charges for such pruning or removals.
  9. Pedestrians, moving vehicles, parked vehicles, and adjacent properties are to be protected during the pruning or removal of such trees.
  10. Such trees are only to be pruned in accordance with standards set forth by the International Society of Arboriculture which ensure healthy recovery of the tree.  This includes cutting branches (no cutting of roots) to the branch collar – not flush and not leaving a stub.  Oak trees may not be pruned between the months of April and October due to the threat posed by Oak Wilt, a potentially fatal disease.  Pruning paint, tar, house paint, burlap and any other substance may not be used.
  11. Trees which are being removed must be cut flush with the ground level.  Stumps shall be ground out and finished to blend with the surrounding elements (lawn, ground cover, etc.)
  12. Replacement trees must adhere to the requirements of the City’s tree ordinance.
  13. The City reserves the right to claim logs (trunks of commercial value) and any other section or entire tree.
  14. Forms may be submitted to the Engineering Department or mailed to 801 Michigan Avenue, ATTN: Engineering, La Porte, IN  46350.