Tree Protection in Chesapeake, VA (2026)
2 verified tree protection rules for Chesapeake, Virginia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Heritage & Protected Trees
Chesapeake's subdivision code directs developers to protect "irreplaceable and beneficial" natural features, giving special consideration to trees the city council has formally designated historic and to specimen trees rated exceptional for their circumference, height or location. Sec. 70-91 applies to apartment, townhouse, office and commercial projects next to single-family neighborhoods, but exempts bona fide farming, forestry and commercial tree operations.
Chesapeake Historic and Specimen Tree Rules
Some RestrictionsChesapeake City Code Sec. 70-91
Existing natural features which would add value to development or to the city as a whole, such as trees, watercourses, historic spots, and similar irreplaceable and beneficial assets, shall be protected wherever practical in the design of the development. Special consideration should be given to specimen and historic trees and specimen vegetation. ... Historic tree means any tree which has been...
Parkway Planting
In Chesapeake's residential cluster subdivisions, canopy street trees are treated as a required amenity rather than an option: Sec. 70-213(B) directs them into tree lawns at least four feet wide between the sidewalk and the curb, keeps utilities out of the root zone, and backs every planting with an 18-month performance guarantee the city can call on if a tree turns out diseased, dying or dead.
Chesapeake Cluster Development Street Tree Rule
Some RestrictionsChesapeake City Code Sec. 70-213(B)
B. Street trees. Canopy trees as defined in section 19-600 of the zoning ordinance are one of the most important amenities of a cluster development. Where possible, canopy trees shall be planted in "tree lawns" at least four feet wide located between the sidewalk and the curb or edge of right-of-way pavement. Utilities shall be located either within the tree lawn area or in a special utility ea...