Des Moines Tree Removal and Mitigation Rules

Code of Ordinances Sec. 42-551 Tree protection and mitigation
The purpose of this chapter is to encourage the preservation of canopied areas and mature trees on private land, and to require the preservation or mitigation of trees during the development process.

Code of Ordinances Sec. 42-555 Tree protection and mitigation standards
(a) Protection of existing trees. Any mature tree or canopied area identified for preservation in an approved tree removal and mitigation plan shall be protected during any development activity in accordance with policies approved by the director. Preference shall be given to preserving mature trees of a species recommended for use at such trees’ locations in the list of recommended tree species approved by the city council by resolution.
(e) Replacement trees. Replacement trees shall be of a species on the list of recommended tree species approved by the city council by resolution, and approved by the director for use at the proposed location. Native species are preferred for replacement trees. Replacement trees shall be of an overstory species and at least one and one-half inches in caliper and not more than two inches in caliper measured six inches above grade. However, understory, ornamental and coniferous trees may be substituted for up to 30 percent of the required overstory replacement trees, subject to the following replacement ratios: Two evergreen trees at least six feet tall, or three understory or ornamental trees at least one inch in caliper measured six inches above grade may be substituted for a required overstory replacement tree.