Trees and Building a New Home in Southeast Michigan
Why Trees Come Up Early
Where the trees are shapes where the home, the driveway and the utility lines can go. On a wooded lot, that can be the first design decision of all.
We work alongside your architect or designer. They lead the design. We help make sure it fits the lot and the town’s rules, keep you informed at every step, and build it with care.
How Towns Protect Trees
Protected Woodland
Some towns map areas of woodland and review tree cutting inside them. West Bloomfield describes a review board for this. Whether a lot is inside one is something the town can confirm.
Large And Landmark Trees
Other towns protect trees above a certain size wherever they stand. Ann Arbor describes landmark trees.
Replacing What Comes Down
Some towns ask for trees that are removed to be replaced. Where this applies, we include the new planting in the plan.
Trees Along The Street
The trees between the sidewalk and the road usually belong to the town. Towns commonly ask for them to be left alone and protected while a home is built, and some keep digging and driveways a set distance away. Dexter and Brighton describe this. We plan the driveway and the utility lines to stay clear of them.
Protecting Trees During The Build
A tree can be harmed without being cut, by heavy equipment over its roots or materials piled against it.
Near Wetlands And Historic Streets
Trees near a wetland or in a historic district can come under those rules as well. Our guides to building near water and historic districts cover more.
This page is general information, not legal advice or an official answer. Each city, township and village decides what is allowed on each property, and its rules change. Before any tree is touched, we check the current rules for your property with the town.
Questions About Trees And Building
Can trees be removed to make room for a new home?
The town sets the rules for trees. Before any tree is touched, we check the current rules for your property with the town.
How do I know which trees on a lot are protected?
It depends on the town, and sometimes on the size and kind of tree. We have the trees on the lot looked at early and confirm with the town.
Who looks after the trees along the street?
Usually the town. Towns commonly ask for them to be left alone and protected during building. We plan the work to stay clear of them.
Will trees be damaged during construction?
We keep equipment and materials away from the roots of the trees that are staying.
Should I think about trees before I buy a lot?
We are glad to walk a lot with you first.
This is general information, not legal advice or an official answer. Each town decides what is allowed on each property. Sources: the official pages linked from each town page. Checked October 11, 2026.
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