Forestry

The City of Livonia is proud to be a Tree City USA since 1998 and a Growth Award community since 2003.

Approved Tree Species List

The City of Livonia is increasing species diversity by planting trees from an approved species list. This list contains trees in three size categories with unique characteristics, including form, flowers, fruit, and habit, which are selected based on the width of the right-of-way where planting will occur. Planting diverse species allows the City to lower dependence on single species, such as maples. Furthermore, diverse plantings are less susceptible to attack by a species-specific threat, such as Emerald Ash Borer, or Dutch elm disease.

Permits

City ordinance requires permits for tree-related work on City trees in the Right-of-Way (normally between the sidewalk and curb) unless City crews or contractors working for the City of Livonia perform the work. Examples of tree work are planting, removal, chemical treatments of any kind, and tree maintenance. 

Permits are free to residents, although if a contractor obtains it there is a $30 charge. Permits are not official until signed by City of Livonia forestry staff.

TREE TRIMMING

Right-of-way trees are trimmed by the city. Two types of tree trimming occur, with determination and methods dictated by the International Society of Arboriculture tree-trimming standards:

Routine Section Trims: Each tree growing in the Right-of-Way is trimmed on a six to seven-year schedule for proper elevation and removal of obvious deadwood.

Maintenance Trims Upon Request: Residents can request a maintenance trim by submitting a service request. Forestry staff will inspect requests for maintenance trims, and assign the work to the City's tree trim contractor as needed.

Permits can be obtained and tree trims can be requested by submitting a request or calling Public Service at (734) 466-2655 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m, Monday through Friday.