Are Willow Trees Banned In Lubbock, Texas?

Lubbock, Texas, has some gorgeous trees adorning streetsides and properties from border to border, but who's in charge of maintaining them, and what is and isn't allowed when it comes to tree laws in the city?

What Trees Are Forbidden in Lubbock?

I'm sure you've seen quite a few trees along Lubbock roads, some of which may have assaulted your car here and there with their untrimmed branches and drooping leaves. But did you know that there are some trees that area actually banned from being planted along streets?

According to the City of Lubbock ordinances, these are the species of trees that are not allowed along streets and roads:

• Ash
• Sycamore
• Cottonwood
• Willow
• Maple
• Poplar

However, some common trees that you WILL see pass you by in your car on Lubbock roads vary in size and include the following:

• Small Trees
  • Crabapple, crape myrtle, mesquite, pinion pine
• Medium Trees
  • Cedar elm, pistachio, live oak
• Large Trees
  • Pecan, red oak, sweetgum, lacebark elm

Fun Fact: The common 'weeping willow' that we've all often seen and heard about is actually a hybrid between two different breeds. Weeping willows are the result of the Chinese Peking willow and the European white willow.

Get our free mobile app

Lubbock Tree Distance Requirements

Something else that Lubbock must adhere to involves the distance from trees and other objects like buildings and curbs. For example, small trees can not be closer than four feet from any curb. For medium and large trees, that raises to six feet.

Also, you know those pesky telephone wires and underground sewer/utility lines? Well, those aren't exempt from city laws either. In fact, trees cannot be planted anywhere within 10 feet below an overhead wire. When it comes to underground sewer lines or water lines, five feet is the minimum bumper for how close trees can be planted above ground.

One last thing. It is against the law to interfere with city agents dealing with trees on public property. So, you aren't allowed to start trimming roadside trees that are public property just because it's bothering you. Sorry.