Tree Removal Process

**Please also check with your HOA on any additional requirements they may have.**

The following situations require City Approval prior to Tree Removal, as outlined in Section 425.070 of City Code:

• If the tree meets Landmark status, which is 24-inches in diameter measured at four feet above ground for hardwood trees and 20-inches in diameter for softwood.
• If the tree is located in a tree preservation area depicted on an approved Tree Preservation Plan (TPP).
• If the tree is greater than 4-inches DBH (Diameter at Breast Height) on nonresidential or mixed-use properties and is located within one hundred feet of Lake Saint Louis or Lake Saint Louise.

If you need to confirm a Tree Preservation Area, please contact the Community Development Office.

The following shows how to measure a tree for Landmark Status and the steps to take if your tree meets Status and you would like to request removal:

Step 1 - Measure the Tree

City Ordinance Section 425.070 requires property owners to receive authorization to remove Landmark trees. A Landmark tree is defined as a tree in fair or better condition which equals or exceeds 24-inches in diameter (width) measured at four feet above ground for hardwood trees, or 20-inches in diameter for softwood trees.

If the tree you want to remove is less than the stated diameter (width) measured at four feet above ground, then there is no need for a permit and no paperwork is required. If you still have a question about your tree, please feel free to take a look at our City Licensed Tree Care Company List to contact an arborist with your concerns. If the tree you are wanting to remove is more than or equal to the stated diameter (width), then please move to step 2 to start the paperwork process for a tree removal permit.

Step 2- Fill out Form & Take Picture of the Tree

Please fill out the Landmark Tree Removal Application (PDF) and take pictures of the tree and email them to Parks and Recreation, or you can bring them to the Parks and Recreation Department at City Hall.

Step 3 - Get a Visit from the City Arborist

The City of Lake Saint Louis will have our City Arborist come and inspect the tree and will deny or approve the application based on if any city codes are being violated.

Questions

If you still have further questions, please give us a call at 636-561-4620.