Franklin, Tennessee
Tree Removal and Tree Service in Franklin, Tennessee
Franklin's Zoning Ordinance Section 17.2, Tree Protection, took effect January 13, 2026. Existing trees on a lot or development site may not be removed without an approved plan or permit, but single-family lots of one acre or less that are not marked as critical lots are exempt. Specimen trees can rarely be approved for removal.
- County
- Williamson
- Tree rules
- Franklin Zoning Ordinance Section 17.2, Tree Protection (effective January 13, 2026)
- Key local rule
- Plan or permit required to remove trees, except on single-family lots of an acre or less not noted as critical
- Electric utility
- Middle Tennessee Electric
- Main hazards
- Tornadoes and straight-line winds, ice, rapid development, old hackberries and oaks
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Franklin?
On a single-family lot of one acre or less that is not noted as a critical lot, no. On commercial, industrial and multifamily sites of any size, and single-family lots larger than an acre, trees may not be removed or disturbed unless an approved development plan, site plan, plat, or building or grading permit covers the work.
- Small home lots
- Exempt, unless designated critical.
- Larger lots and development
- Approval needed before removal.
- Specimen trees
- Generally not approved for removal.
Middle Tennessee warning signs
Fencerow trees declining after nearby grading
Root damage from construction.
Hackberry limbs falling in summer
Weak wood and decay.
Ash thinning
Emerald ash borer is established.
Trees snapped in spring storms
Tornadoes and straight-line winds are common.
Who needs approval in Franklin
| Property | Approval to remove trees? |
|---|---|
| Single-family lot of one acre or less, not critical | No |
| Single-family lot over one acre | Yes |
| Lot noted as a critical lot | Yes |
| Commercial, industrial or multifamily, any size | Yes |
| Specimen tree on a regulated site | Rarely approved |
Growth around old trees
Franklin has grown from a historic county seat into one of Tennessee's fastest-growing cities. Farms and woodlots around it have become subdivisions, and old trees along fencerows, many of them hackberries, oaks, sugar maples and black walnuts, are often the only trees left on new lots.
Thin soils over limestone in much of Williamson County mean roots run shallow and wide. Grading and compaction during construction kill many trees that look untouched at the time.
The historic downtown and battlefield sites keep some of the oldest trees in the city.
Spring storms are a recurring threat. Straight-line winds and tornadoes cross Middle Tennessee most years, and trees weakened by construction damage are often the first to fall.
Section 17.2 in practice
Applications go to the Department of Building and Neighborhood Services, and the Department of Planning and Sustainability or the City Arborist reviews them and makes a recommendation. Specimen trees are given the strongest protection.
When a specimen tree is removed without approval, it must be replaced at two caliper inches of new trees for every caliper inch removed. A 30-inch tree means 60 inches of replacement trees.
Removing trees on a regulated Franklin lot
Check the exemption
Lot size and critical lot status.
Identify specimen trees
They are rarely approved for removal.
Apply
To Building and Neighborhood Services.
City Arborist review
Recommendation before a decision.
Plant replacements
As required.
Franklin tree questions
When did Franklin's new tree rules take effect?
Section 17.2 took effect on January 13, 2026.
What is a critical lot?
A lot flagged on a plat or plan for special conditions such as slopes or trees. Critical lots are not exempt.
Does Franklin, Tennessee share rules with Franklin Township elsewhere?
No. This page covers the City of Franklin in Williamson County, Tennessee.
What if a specimen tree is cut without approval?
It must be replaced at two caliper inches for each inch removed, and penalties may apply.
Does Brentwood follow the same rules?
No. Brentwood and unincorporated Williamson County have their own requirements.
Do I need a permit to remove a dead tree on a large lot?
Contact the city. Dead and hazardous trees are handled through the review process, usually with documentation from an arborist.
Reach a tree service in Franklin
Call to be connected with an independent tree company that works in the Franklin area, or leave your number and one will call you back.
(844) 955-1716Call availability varies by area and time of day
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