Do You Need a Tree Removal Permit in Wichita, KS?

Local Rules

Trees on your own property

In most cases, a tree fully on your private property in Wichita can be removed without a city permit - it's your tree. That said, a few things are always worth checking before the saw comes out:

HOA rules. Many Wichita-area subdivisions have their own tree and landscaping requirements that go beyond city rules.
Property lines. A tree straddling a boundary is a shared matter with your neighbor - sort it out first.
Utilities. Always have underground lines located before any stump grinding or digging.

Street trees and the right-of-way

Trees in the tree lawn between the sidewalk and the street, or otherwise in the public right-of-way, are typically regulated by the city - and removing or heavily pruning one usually requires approval. Because rules change and every lot is different, confirm the specifics for your address with the City of Wichita or Sedgwick County before scheduling. We're glad to point you in the right direction, but the city is the final word on right-of-way trees.

A note on Wichita's public trees

Wichita has spent well over a century building a canopy on land that started as treeless Chisholm Trail prairie, so the city takes its street and park trees seriously. Much of that public planting is now aging and, in the case of ash, threatened by emerald ash borer - which is exactly why the city manages right-of-way removals rather than leaving them to chance. When in doubt about whether a tree is yours or the city's, ask before you cut.

How we help

For clearly private trees, we handle the whole job - removal, cleanup, and stump grinding. For anything near the right-of-way, we'll flag it so you can confirm with the city first.

Related Guides & Services

Questions about your specific tree? Call (316) 232-2400.

Frequently Asked

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in my own backyard in Wichita?

Usually not for a tree fully on your private property, but check any HOA rules and have utilities located first. Street and right-of-way trees are a different matter and typically need city approval.

What about a tree between the sidewalk and the street?

That's usually in the public right-of-way and regulated by the city. Confirm the rules for your address with the City of Wichita before removing or heavily pruning it.

Can you tell me if my tree is on the right-of-way?

We can give you a good idea when we look at the property, but the City of Wichita is the final authority. We'll flag anything questionable so you can confirm before we schedule.