Bottom line up front: Most private residential tree removals in Jonesboro, AR do NOT require a permit. The key exceptions are city right-of-way trees and floodplain properties. When in doubt, call Jonesboro Community Development at (870) 933-4537 before work begins.

The General Rule: Private Property, No Permit Needed

Arkansas state law does not impose statewide tree removal permit requirements on private landowners. Municipalities have the authority to regulate tree removal within their jurisdiction, but many — including Jonesboro — focus those regulations primarily on right-of-way trees and commercial development, leaving most private residential removals unregulated.

For most Jonesboro homeowners removing a tree from their own property that does not touch the public right-of-way and is not in a floodplain zone, no city permit is required before removal.

When You DO Need Permission or a Permit in Jonesboro

1. City Right-of-Way Trees

The strip of land between the sidewalk and the curb or street edge is part of the public right-of-way, owned and maintained by the City of Jonesboro. Trees growing in this zone are city property, even if they appear to be in your front yard. You cannot remove or substantially prune a ROW tree without city approval.

To request ROW tree work: contact Jonesboro Public Works at the city's main line or through Jonesboro's online services portal. A city inspector will assess the tree and determine whether removal, pruning, or hazard trimming is warranted. The city may handle the work or authorize a contractor.

How to tell: Walk to the curb and look back. If the tree's trunk base sits between the sidewalk and the street, it's likely a ROW tree. If the trunk base sits behind the sidewalk (on your lawn or in your landscaping), it's generally your property.

2. Floodplain Properties

Properties in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs, also called the 100-year floodplain) may have additional tree removal restrictions. Floodplain vegetation helps slow water flow and reduce erosion, and its removal can require floodplain development permits. Check your flood zone status at FEMA's Flood Map Service Center (msc.fema.gov) before removing significant vegetation near water bodies, drainage channels, or low-lying areas.

3. Commercial Properties and Development

Commercial properties and planned developments in Jonesboro are subject to the city's development and landscaping codes, which may require tree preservation, mitigation, or replacement for removed trees above certain size thresholds. If you are removing trees as part of any commercial development or land clearing project, consult with Jonesboro Community Development at (870) 933-4537 before work begins.

4. Historic Districts and Special Overlay Zones

Properties within Jonesboro's designated historic districts or special overlay zones may have additional requirements for tree work visible from the public right-of-way. Contact the planning department to confirm if your property is in one of these areas.

Emergency and Storm Damage — Expedited Process

When a tree is actively threatening a structure after a tornado or severe storm, emergency removal can proceed immediately for life-safety purposes. Documentation of the emergency condition (photos, 911 records if applicable) is prudent. For ROW trees in emergency situations, contact the city immediately — Jonesboro Public Works responds to emergency ROW tree hazards.

Craighead County (Unincorporated Areas)

If your property is in Craighead County but outside the City of Jonesboro limits (unincorporated areas), you are generally not subject to Jonesboro's city regulations. Craighead County does not maintain a county-wide tree removal permit requirement for private landowners. Check with Craighead County Planning if you are in an area with HOA restrictions or special overlays.

Greene County (Paragould Area)

Paragould, the county seat of Greene County, has its own city codes. Most private residential removals in Paragould do not require a permit. For ROW trees, contact Paragould Public Works. Greene County unincorporated areas generally have no permit requirement for private landowners.

Contacting Jonesboro City for Tree Questions

The licensed contractors in our network are familiar with local permit processes and can advise on whether your specific job requires any permit or approval before work begins.

Permit FAQs — Jonesboro, AR

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Jonesboro, AR?

Generally no for private property trees away from the right-of-way. Exceptions: ROW trees (city approval required), floodplain properties, and commercial development. When uncertain, call Jonesboro Community Development at (870) 933-4537 first.

How do I tell if a tree is in the city right-of-way?

Look at the trunk base. If it sits between the sidewalk and the street/curb, it's likely a ROW tree and city property. If it sits behind the sidewalk on your private lawn, it's typically yours. When in doubt, contact Jonesboro Public Works before any work.

What if a ROW tree is falling on my house?

Emergency life-safety situations allow immediate action. Document the emergency condition thoroughly (photos, time-stamped). Contact Jonesboro Public Works to report the emergency ROW situation even if you've already begun work. For any insurance claim, documentation of the situation before and during work is critical.

Do I need a permit for stump grinding in Jonesboro?

No permit is required for stump grinding on private property. If the stump is in the ROW, city authorization applies as with any ROW work. Remember to call 811 (Arkansas Call Before You Dig) before any grinding to have utility lines marked.

Questions About Your Specific Tree? Call Us.

We connect you with local contractors who know Jonesboro's permit requirements and can advise on your situation before work begins.

Call (870) 555-0147 — Free Estimate