Vegetation Management: Public Property
Under the Policy; “Vegetation Management on City Property” a vegetation management request form is required in order to request consideration of approval of any vegetation management work to be performed on public (City) property. Please contact the City Manager by phone (231) 526-2104 or e-mail citymgr@cityofharborsprings.com for additional information. All property owners and/or contractors are advised that any unauthorized practice of vegetation management on City property is a criminal trespass.
Vegetation Management Policy (Revised May 20, 2019)
Vegetation Management Request Form
Vegetation Management: Private Property
The City does not regulate tree removal on private property. However, in 2024, City Council approved Best Practice Guidelines prepared by the Bluff Stability Committee. The guidelines recommend vegetation management practices on privately-owned bluff parcels to help protect bluff stability while preserving views of Little Traverse Bay. While these guidelines are not ordinances, the City encourages bluff property owners to follow them when possible.
Planting Trees in Your Yard
If you’re looking to plant some trees on your property, the City’s “Right Tree Right Place” guide will help you find the best fit for your yard!
Friends of the Trees Donation Program
It costs the City tens of thousands of dollars annually to maintain and manage its trees on public property and we do not have enough General Fund tax revenue to properly maintain our tree inventory. To help maintain the trees that live in our parks and line our streets and sidewalks, the City has established a “Friends of the Trees” program. Individuals can donate any amount – whether $50, $500 or $5,000 – to the City’s Tree Care & Maintenance Fund. Money in this fund will be earmarked for expenses related to caring for our trees, such as watering, pruning and trimming, spraying, and feeding trees, as well as ensuring our tree inventory is regularly updated. Donations of $100 or more will be recognized with an engraving on a plaque at City Hall.
Please complete and return the below form along with your payment (check payable to City of Harbor Springs) to: City of Harbor Springs, Attn: City Manager, 160 Zoll Street, Harbor Springs, MI 49740
