Tree Removal and Treatment

Before you remove, trim or treat any trees, check that the tree is not on City property known as the right of way. If you are not sure, contact the Parks Department at 952-404-5366.

The City is responsible for tree trimming and removal along public city streets to maintain safe road conditions and hazards from occurring because of diseased or dead tree conditions. Hennepin County is responsible for maintaining trees along county roads and the State is responsible for trees along state roads. Utility companies, such as Xcel Energy, may also complete tree trimming to maintain safety clearance for power or utility lines.

Tree Removal Permit Required

The City adopted updates to the Tree Preservation Ordinance (TPO) which are now in effect. The goal of these amendments is to ensure that the natural environment is preserved, protected, and enhanced.

The most significant changes to the TPO include incentives to maintain existing canopy and additional restrictions on mature tree removal.

Therefore, a Tree Removal Permit is now required for any significant or heritage tree removal. This means, if you are removing a tree that is 6 inches or greater in diameter breast height (DBH), a permit is most likely required for your tree removal.

This new process will achieve the following:

• Allows the City to more closely monitor the changes to our community’s valued canopy
• Promotes thoughtful and informed tree removal decisions
• Gives Wayzata residents the opportunity to consult with a third-party tree expert
• Provides the City with more immediate awareness of migrating tree pests and pathogens
• Ensures that contracted tree work meets the standards of our City’s TPO

What do I need to do as a resident?

If you plan to take down a tree with a DBH greater than 6 inches, visit wayzata.org/permits and submit a tree permit.

If you have questions about a tree on your property, email the parks department to set up a free consultation with our Certified Arborist.

Ways to Remove Your Tree

You hire a contractor.
If you hire a contractor, they must be a City licensed contractor to remove your tree per City Code Ordinance 519.01. Contractors must be approved by the City with proof of bond and insurance. To request a list of contractors approved by the City, call 952-404-5300 or view the list here. 

You remove the tree.
You may remove your own tree, but must discard wood following Minnesota Department of Agriculture guidelines.

Brush Disposal From Tree Trimming

Brush may be taken to the Plymouth Yard Waste Site with a Wayzata drivers license. Information on the location and hours of the Plymouth Yard Waste Site can be found on their website.