NYC Parks Refused to Remove Hornets Nest
The department directed residents to hire private contractors for nest removal from city trees.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Wildlife
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The New York City Parks Department has declined to remove a large bald-faced hornets nest located in a city tree in Middle Village, Queens. Officials cited the ecological importance of hornets as pollinators and natural pest controllers when rejecting the request.
Why it matters
Local wildlife management policies often prioritize ecosystem health over residential removal requests for stinging insects. The city maintains that hornets provide essential benefits to the environment, necessitating strict oversight for any human intervention.
The nest, situated 10 feet high at Cowles Court and Dry Harbor Road, is estimated to be the size of two basketballs. Professional relocation services typically range from $200 to $800.
The players
NYC Parks Department
This municipal agency is responsible for the maintenance and management of over 29,000 acres of parkland and millions of trees across the five boroughs.
Betty Coccaro
She is a 79-year-old local resident who initially identified the nest in her neighborhood.
NYPD
This is the primary law enforcement agency for New York City which oversees a specialized beekeeping unit for emergency situations.
The details
Residents in Middle Village seeking to remove the nest must secure a tree work permit from the NYC Parks Department and hire a qualified private relocator. The agency noted that while the NYPD maintains a beekeeping unit for emergencies, standard nest removal does not qualify for city-funded intervention.
Timeline
Betty Coccaro spotted the nest last week.
A Parks Department official sent an email regarding the nest on September 14, 2026.
Roadmap
The citys stance aligns with broader urban forestry management strategies that prioritize protecting local insect pollinators. This approach reflects an ongoing shift in municipal policy that treats public trees as vital ecological infrastructure rather than mere aesthetic ornaments.
Residents should anticipate paying for private removal services if they choose to pursue nest relocation, as the city will not provide this as a public service. Homeowners must also manage the logistical requirement of obtaining a specific tree work permit before any contracted work can begin.
The takeaway
When dealing with stinging insects on public property, the city emphasizes that coexistence is often the preferred and default outcome. Residents should contact a private pest professional if they believe a specific immediate safety hazard exists at their property.
Further reading
Learn more about local fauna and policies in our New York City Wildlife section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by New York Post.
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