Fayette Tree Topping ordinance (§ 225.590)
Chapter 225: Parks, Recreation and Trees · Article III. Trees and Tree Board
In short: Topping street or park trees, meaning cutting back limbs so the canopy is removed, is unlawful as a normal practice, with exceptions for storm damage or some trees under wires.
Our plain-English summary, not the official text or legal advice. The ordinance below is what counts.
It shall be unlawful as a normal practice for any person, firm, or City department to top any street, park tree, or other tree on public property. "Topping, rounding off or pollarding" are defined as the systematic cutting back of limbs within the tree's crown to such a degree as to remove the normal canopy and disfigure the tree. Trees severely damaged by storms or other causes, or certain trees under utility wires or other obstructions where other pruning practices are impractical may be exempted from this Section as the determination of the Community Forest Manager or the Tree Board.
Official source: City of Fayette official Code of Ordinances (online), § 225.590
Last checked October 30, 2026. The city's official copy controls; this page is a reading copy, not legal advice.