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Adopted Tree Preservation and Protection Ordinance Overview

In order to protect Bloomfield Township’s woodland areas and the quality and character of the neighborhoods within our community, the Township has enacted a Tree Preservation & Protection Ordinance.

Generally, the ordinance will apply to properties where new construction or redevelopment is planned or for any clear-cutting activity. It will not apply to currently developed properties where there is no proposed construction
A copy of the ordinance is available by clicking here.

Tree Preservation & Protection Permit Application and Instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Tree Preservation & Protection Ordinance?
An ordinance to safeguard trees on private and public property from unnecessary removal and to regulate such removal for the preservation of important physical, recreational and economical assets for both present and future generations and to provide penalties for violation thereof.

2. When is a Tree Preservation & Protection Permit required?
A tree permit is required for any person to clear-cut, remove, cause to be removed, transplant or destroy any protected tree or landmark tree on any property in Bloomfield Township that is undergoing new construction or redevelopment. In addition, a tree permit is required for any clear-cutting activity on any property in Bloomfield Township.

3. Which trees are regulated/protected under the Ordinance?
Protected trees are eight (8) inches Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) or greater provided they are not classified as landmark trees. A Landmark Tree is any tree that is twenty-four (24) inches DBH or greater, as well as any tree with the botanical name and diameter identified under Section 2. Definitions of the Tree Preservation & Protection Ordinance.

4. If regulated trees are proposed to be removed, how is the replacement rate calculated?
Protected trees, other than landmark trees, must be replaced at a rate of 50% of the total Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) removed. Landmark trees must be replaced at a rate of 100% of the total DBH removed. Each protected/landmark tree(s) must be replaced with a tree that is a minimum of three (3) inch caliper or eight (8) feet in height for evergreens.

5. What other items are required to be submitted with the application for permit?
In addition to the completed application for permit, the applicant should submit a tree survey performed by an arborist, as defined in the ordinance.

Additional Information

For more information regarding the Tree Preservation & Protection Ordinance please contact the Planning, Building & Ordinance Department at 248-433-7715 or the Engineering and Environmental Services Department at 248-594-2800.

Useful Links

Arbor Day Foundation – Benefits of Trees
USDA – The Effects of Urban Trees on Air Quality
Trees Are Good

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Charter Township of Bloomfield
4200 Telegraph Road
P.O. Box 489
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48303-0489
248.433.7700
All information © 2012 Bloomfield Township, Michigan 

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