Tree Removal and Treatment

Chainsaw cutting tree

Before you remove, trim, or treat any trees, make sure that they are on your private property. Hennepin County maintains an interactive property map, which can be helpful in identifying lot lines. For assistance, 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 prevent 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.

Supporting a Healthy Urban Forest

The City of Wayzata is committed to the long-term health of our trees. We now collect tree care credentials from our licensed contractors, and make that information available to residents via our website (see below).

  • Why?Credentialed professionals (Certified Arborists, TRAQ, BCMA) have the knowledge and experience to: 
    • Improve tree health with current best practices and science-based solutions
    • Minimize risks by understanding a tree’s structure and response, and promoting safety on the job site

Choose wisely! When selecting a tree care company, consider prioritizing those with credentialed arborists. You can always find certified arborists or verify a credential by visiting www.treesaregood.org.

  1. 2026 Tree Removal and Treatment License Holders List

Tree Removal Permit Required

If you are removing a tree that is 6 inches or greater in diameter at breast height (DBH), a Tree Removal Permit is required.

This permitting process:

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

What do I need to do as a resident?

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

If you hire a contractor, they must be licensed to conduct professional tree work in Wayzata 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 below.

If you have questions about a tree on private property, please contact the City Forester. 

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.