Muscat – The Governorate has issued a clear set of regulations regarding the planting of trees outside the boundaries of residential building plots, emphasising adherence to these guidelines to avoid violations and hefty fines.

Residents are reminded that a permit is required before planting any trees outside residential boundaries, and unauthorised planting may result in an administrative fine of RO 100, along with the mandatory removal or correction of the violation.

Residents wishing to beautify their surroundings with greenery must request a minor building permit for any tree planting outside their plot. The permit (service fee of RO 50) ensures trees are placed legally, safely, and without causing disruption. They can be availed through Muscat Municipality’s website www.mm.gov.om or Sanad Service Center.

To ensure safe and legal planting, residents must follow these key regulations:

1. Only plant on the sidewalk directly adjacent to your plot, and only after obtaining official approval.
2. Maintain a minimum 3-meter setback from the edge of the street.
3. Keep a 0.5-meter gap between the sidewalk and the residential land boundary.
4. Select tree species with suitable size and root systems that do not affect infrastructure.
5. On narrow sidewalks (less than 6 meters), trees must be planted no more than 4 meters from the street edge.
6. It is allowed to plant on the wadi-facing side, with at least 3 meters of clearance for walkways and services.
   Tree planting is strictly prohibited in the following locations:
   • The car entrance path
   • Shared front space between two plots at a right angle
   • Areas near public utility zones
   • Open sides of a building not defined in the official survey plan
   • Areas with public service lines or electrical complexes
   • Street corners where visibility may be compromised •
   Fencing rules for landscaping works:
   In addition to planting regulations, fencing around landscaping areas is also strictly regulated. The use of fixed materials for fencing is not allowed. Instead, the following fencing methods are permitted:
   • Side barriers made of kerbstone or similar materials, not exceeding 20 cm in height.
   • Green metal mesh fences for individual trees, not exceeding 1.5 meters in height.
   • Plant hedges, provided they do not exceed 50 cm in height.
   These rules are designed to maintain a consistent and safe streetscape, while still allowing residents the freedom to enhance their surroundings in a compliant and environmentally friendly manner.
   Muscat Governorate emphasizes that while greenery enhances the urban environment, unauthorized planting and fencing can create hazards and hinder public service access. This campaign is part of an ongoing effort to preserve infrastructure integrity and promote organized urban landscaping.