Tree Service in Novi, MI
Tree removal, trimming, stump grinding, and woodland management in Novi, MI. Navigating Novi's woodland protection ordinance. Licensed & insured.
Photo by Ken Lund, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Novi blends luxury subdivisions with century-old farmland woodlots — a city where rapid development has transformed agricultural land into vibrant neighborhoods, often leaving properties with mature trees that need professional care. The city takes its woodland resources seriously, with one of the more detailed tree protection ordinances in the region.
Foundations Tree Experts serves Novi homeowners with tree removal, trimming, stump grinding, and emergency response. We’re familiar with Novi’s Woodland Protection Ordinance and can help navigate the requirements.
Neighborhoods we serve in Novi
We work throughout Novi, including:
- Meadowbrook — established neighborhood with mature trees from the area’s development period
- Island Lake — residential development near natural areas
- Properties near Maybury State Park — wooded lots bordering parkland
- Various subdivisions across Novi that blend newer construction with established tree cover
Novi’s Woodland Protection Ordinance
Novi’s ordinance (Chapter 37) is more detailed than most cities in the area. Key points homeowners should know:
- Within regulated woodlands: all trees 8 inches DBH (diameter at breast height) or greater are protected
- Outside regulated woodlands: trees 36 inches DBH or greater are protected
- Historic or specimen trees are also protected regardless of location
- Replacement trees must be native to Michigan species listed in Section 38
- The city maintains a Regulated Woodland Map — check whether your property falls within a regulated area before planning any tree work
Tree challenges in Novi
- Woodland management — many Novi properties include or border regulated woodlands that require careful management to maintain ecological health while keeping the property safe.
- Emerald ash borer — Oakland County has been heavily impacted by EAB. Dead ash in or near regulated woodlands still need removal.
- Development-era trees — the rapid transformation from farmland to subdivisions left many properties with trees that were not ideal for residential settings and now need attention.
Local resources
- Novi Regulated Woodland Map & Ordinance — check if your property is in a regulated woodland
- Novi Woodland Protection Ordinance (Chapter 37) — full ordinance text
- Novi Forestry Q&A — common questions answered by the city
- Emerald Ash Borer Info (Michigan DNR) — identification and regional impact
What we offer in Novi
Emergency Storm Response
On-call after wind and ice events — fallen, split, or hanging limbs cleared fast so your property is safe and accessible again.
Tree Removal
Hazardous, dead, or unwanted trees taken down cleanly — down to the last branch.
Trimming & Pruning
Structural pruning that protects long-term tree health and your roofline.
Stump Grinding
Below-grade grinding, root chase, and full cleanup so you can replant or reseed.
Crane-Assisted Removal
Heavy lifts over rooflines, power lines, and tight lots — jobs other crews walk away from.
Lot & Land Clearing
Fence-line clearing, new-build prep, and invasive-species removal.
Tree service FAQ for Novi
Does Novi have a tree protection ordinance?
Yes — Novi has a Woodland Protection Ordinance (Chapter 37). Within regulated woodlands, all trees 8 inches DBH or greater are protected. Outside regulated woodlands, trees 36 inches DBH or greater are also protected. Occupied residential lots have some exemptions, but we recommend checking before removing any large trees.
What are regulated woodlands in Novi?
Regulated woodlands are forests deemed to have important ecological value. They must be maintained in a natural condition — trees and undergrowth must remain, and the area cannot be cleared for lawn or play areas. The city maintains a Regulated Woodland Map showing which properties are affected.
Do I need replacement trees if I remove a protected tree in Novi?
Yes — if you remove protected trees, replacements must be native to Michigan. The city's Woodland Replacement Chart (Section 38) lists approved replacement species.