Large Tree Removal in Nashville, TN

Single-family and duplex owners in Davidson County generally don't need a Metro permit to remove a tree on their own land. Exceptions: trees in the public right-of-way (which need Urban Forestry approval), designated protected or heritage trees, and trees on active subdivisions or approved site plans.

Bradford pear: splits as it matures; common in subdivisions White oak and Shumard oak: large, valuable shade trees Hackberry: very common; decay-prone; frequent storm failures

The March 2020 and December 9, 2023 tornadoes snapped and uprooted trees across North and East Nashville and Madison.

Shallow roots make trees more likely to uproot in saturated ground.

Root damage from new construction can lead to decline and dieback a few years later.

A mix of older lots with mature trees and dense infill with little room for equipment. Rock close to the surface can complicate stump grinding and replanting.