Trees provide valuable shade, purify the air, store carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Aachen's tree protection statutes protect trees that have reached a certain size. Felling or interventions in crowns or root areas must be applied for and approved by the Lower Nature Conservation Authority. Violations (i.e. interventions without approval) can be punished with fines of up to 50,000 euros.
© City of Aachen / Stefan Haak
FAQ - Frequently asked questions
From what size are trees protected?
- Deciduous trees from a trunk circumference of 80 cm (measured at a height of one meter) and multi-stemmed trees from 50 cm of a stem.
- Conifers from a trunk circumference of 100 cm (measured at a height of one meter) and multi-stemmed trees from 60 cm of a stem.
- Fruit trees with a trunk circumference of 150 cm or more (measured at a height of one meter)
Are all tree species protected?
No, they are not protected: Spruces, arborvitae, false cypresses, corkscrew willows, junipers, birches and poplars.
Are hedges and shrubs covered by the tree protection statutes?
Hedges and shrubs are not subject to the tree protection statutes. Regulations on hedge and shrub pruning can be found in BNatSchG § 39 para (5).
Are dead trees subject to the tree protection statute?
No (definition: no living shoots or leaves are present).
During what period may trees be felled?
In principle, trees should be felled outside the breeding season (March 1 to September 30), even in areas used for horticultural purposes. However, it is permitted by law all year round, taking species protection into account.
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