Do you need a tree removal permit in Kansas City, MO?

We could not confirm a city tree permit rule for Kansas City. Call the city before removing a large tree. Kansas City's Forestry and Conservation program manages city trees in the street right-of-way. Residents can get a free permit from a city forester to prune, remove or plant a right-of-way tree themselves. We could not confirm a city permit rule for trees on private land, so call the city before removing a large tree. Our confidence: low. Short explanation, not legal advice.

City trees in the street right-of-way are managed by Forestry and Conservation. Foresters can issue permits that let residents prune, remove or plant these trees themselves, and there is no cost for the permit. The city publishes tree planting specifications.

City foresters identify right-of-way trees that are hazardous (partially dead, completely dead or structurally unstable) and schedule them for removal. Report storm damage through the 311 Action Center.

Contact Forestry and Conservation through the MyKCMO app, by calling 311, or by email from the city forestry page.

HOA rules can be stricter; check yours. Read your HOA covenants or ask the board before work starts.

Your address, the tree species if you know it, the trunk width measured about 4.5 feet above the ground, photos of the whole tree, and whether it is near the street, a sidewalk or a power line. Ask if a permit is needed and how long it takes.

Some do and some do not. Ask before you sign, and get it in writing who applies and who pays the fee. In many places the property owner is the one responsible for following the rules.

No. It is a short, plain summary of public rules with links to the official sources. For a firm answer on your property, ask the city or a local attorney.

We last checked it on 26 October 2026 against the official sources listed on this page. City rules change, so check the official source or call the city before work starts.

Yes, they can. County rules, state rules for things like wetlands or protected species, and utility rules near power lines can apply on top of city rules. If your property is outside city limits, the county rules usually apply instead. Ask the city or county office.