Tree Protection in Baltimore, MD (2026)
6 verified tree protection rules for Baltimore, Maryland, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
Baltimore requires a permit to remove any street tree or tree on city property, administered by the Department of Recreation and Parks Forestry Division. Private property trees over a certain size may also require permits.
Baltimore Tree Removal Permit Rules
Heavy RestrictionsHeritage & Protected Trees
Baltimore provides special protection for notable and heritage trees, including large specimens and historically significant trees, which receive enhanced protection during development and require special approval for removal.
Baltimore Heritage & Protected Tree Rules
Heavy RestrictionsTree Replacement Requirements
Baltimore requires replacement planting for removed trees, with ratios depending on the size of the removed tree and whether the removal was authorized, supporting the city's 40% canopy goal.
Baltimore Tree Replacement Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsProtected Tree Species
Maryland's Forest Conservation Act (Natural Resources §5-1601 et seq.) requires reforestation and afforestation when developing sites over 40,000 square feet. Baltimore enforces the act locally and protects specimen and champion trees through its tree protection ordinance and Critical Area rules.
Forest Conservation Act and protected tree species
Heavy RestrictionsParkway Planting
Street trees in Baltimore parkways and tree pits are city property managed by Recreation and Parks. Residents may not plant, prune, or remove street trees without a Forestry Division permit. Approved species lists guide replacement planting under the Forest Conservation Act.
Street tree and parkway planting standards
Some RestrictionsUrban Forest Equity
Baltimore commits to a 40% tree canopy goal, prioritizing planting in low-canopy, heat-vulnerable, and historically disinvested neighborhoods. The TreeBaltimore program coordinates with the Baltimore Tree Trust, Recreation and Parks, and DPW to address racial disparities in canopy coverage.