NYC Parks Denied Removal of Hornets' Nest in Queens
The city declined to remove a nest from a local tree, requiring residents to secure a permit for private removal.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Wildlife
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The New York City Parks Department has refused to remove a bald-faced hornets' nest discovered in a city tree in Middle Village, Queens. The agency informed residents that they must obtain a tree work permit and hire a private contractor if they wish to have the nest relocated.
Why it matters
The city maintains that hornets are essential for the local ecosystem as plant pollinators and natural pest controllers. While the nest poses a concern for those near the intersection of Cowles Court and Dry Harbor Road, the agency has prioritized the role of insects in the environment.
The nest, currently measuring roughly the size of two basketballs, sits 10 feet high in a tree maintained by the city. Private relocation services typically cost between $200 and $800, subject to professional assessment and local permit approvals.
The players
NYC Parks Department
The city agency responsible for managing urban trees and public green spaces throughout New York City.
NYPD
The city police department that maintains a specialized beekeeping unit for emergency biological hazards.
The details
To manage the nest, residents are required to secure a formal tree work permit from the NYC Parks Department before any activity occurs on city trees. The agency recommends that homeowners hire a qualified insect relocator for the task rather than attempting removal themselves. While the NYPD operates a specialized beekeeping unit, it is reserved strictly for emergency situations and is not tasked with routine nest removal.
Timeline
A local resident discovered the nest last week.
The Parks Department provided official guidance via email on September 14, 2026.
The Home Front
The city's stance follows established municipal tree protection protocols. These regulations govern how residents manage natural features on public property, prioritizing environmental preservation over individual removal requests.
If you are concerned about a nest near your property, verify its location to determine if it is on public city land or your own private lot. Residents should consult a licensed professional for any work near trees to avoid municipal code violations.
The takeaway
The city emphasizes that hornets provide valuable pollination services, and maintenance of public trees remains strictly regulated by the Parks Department. Homeowners planning to hire a professional for nest relocation should first confirm the tree status and apply for the required work permit.
Further reading
Learn more about local insect management and coexistence strategies in our Wildlife section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by New York Post.
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