Tree protection statute

Rastatt is green. In the city center alone, over 17,000 urban trees provide fresh air and improve the urban climate. At the same time, trees serve as a habitat for animals and other plants. The trees in the city center have therefore been under special protection since 2022 - both trees in private and public areas. This is regulated by the tree protection statutes (PDF) (75 KB).

Trees in the city with castle

Questions and answers on the tree protection statutes

Where does the tree protection statute apply?

The tree protection statutes apply within the built-up areas and within the scope of development plans in the core city of Rastatt and in the districts.

Which trees are particularly protected?

All trees with a trunk circumference of one meter or more are protected. Multi-stemmed trees are also protected if at least one of the trunks has a circumference of 50 centimeters. The trunk circumference is measured one meter above the ground. The root area of the trees is also protected.

What is prohibited?

In particular, it is prohibited to remove, destroy, damage or significantly alter protected trees. This includes, for example, pruning or topping of tree crowns, fortification of the root area or the application of de-icing salts.

What can be approved?

Permission to fell or prune protected trees is granted, among other things, if permitted development would otherwise not be possible or would only be possible with considerable restrictions, if a tree poses a danger to people or property, or if the tree is significantly diseased.

Does a replacement tree have to be planted?

Yes, a replacement must be planted or compensation paid for every tree that has been approved for felling by the city council. The amount depends on the trunk circumference of the original tree.

How do property owners obtain permission to fell or prune trees?

Both private property owners and construction companies must first submit an application for exemption to the city's Ecology and Greenery Department. The application form can be downloaded or requested by email at: oekologie-und-gruen@rastatt.de.

Note from the administration: At peak times, it can take six to eight weeks to process the application.

What about tree care measures?

Professional tree care measures on a small scale are still permitted, but must be documented and submitted to the Ecology and Greenery customer department.


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