Tree Protection in Richmond, VA (2026)
3 verified tree protection rules for Richmond, Virginia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
Richmond Chapter 41 (Trees) requires permits to remove trees in the public right-of-way, on city property, and within the Resource Protection Area buffer along the James River, with replacement obligations enforced by the Urban Forestry Division.
Tree Removal Permits Under Chapter 41
Some RestrictionsRichmond Urban Forestry Division (DPW)
Tree Maintenance or Removal — Permits for maintenance or removal of city trees are issued by the Urban Forestry Division in certain cases free of charge. A tree inspection may be requested by calling the City's Customer Care Center at 3-1-1. Permit Applications: Tree Planting Permit (go.rva.gov/plantacitytree); Permit to remove a city tree; Permit to perform maintenance on a city tree; Approved...
Heritage & Protected Trees
Richmond Chapter 41 authorizes the Urban Forestry Commission to designate heritage trees of exceptional age, size, species, or historical significance, with elevated removal review and replacement standards beyond ordinary public trees.
Significant and Heritage Tree Protections
Some RestrictionsUrban Forest Equity
Richmond's tree canopy is unevenly distributed, with formerly redlined neighborhoods averaging 15% canopy versus 60%+ in West End neighborhoods, prompting equity-focused planting programs through Richmond 300 and the Urban Forestry Master Plan.