Tree Removal Permits: Rockville vs Takoma Park
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Rockville, MD and Takoma Park, MD?
Rockville and Takoma Park have similar restriction levels.
Rockville, MD
Montgomery County
Montgomery County has some of the strictest tree protection laws in the region under Chapter 22A (Forest Conservation) and Chapter 49A (Roadside Trees). Removing any tree 6 inches DBH or greater on a development site requires a forest conservation plan. Roadside trees need county permission for removal.
View full Rockville rules →Takoma Park, MD
Montgomery County
Takoma Park requires a permit to remove any tree with a circumference of 24 inches or more (approximately 7.6 inches diameter) on private property under Chapter 12.12 of the Municipal Code. The city arborist reviews applications and may require replacement plantings. Takoma Park is widely recognized as a Tree City USA with some of the strictest urban tree protections in Maryland.
View full Takoma Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Rockville | Takoma Park |
|---|---|---|
| Forest Law | Ch. 22A | - |
| Regulated Size | 6 inches DBH or larger | - |
| Specimen Trees | 30 inches DBH protected | - |
| Roadside Trees | Ch. 49A, MCDOT permit | - |
| Approval | Planning Board / MCDOT | - |
| Code Section | - | Ch. 12.12 Trees and Vegetation |
| Permit Threshold | - | 24-inch circumference (7.6-inch diameter) |
| Measurement Point | - | 4.5 feet above grade (DBH) |
| Replacement Ratio | - | Typically 2:1 or greater |
| Tree City USA | - | Yes, continuously designated |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Rockville FAQ
Can I remove a tree on my own property in Montgomery County?
It depends. If your property is not undergoing development, small trees may be removed freely. But trees 6 inches DBH or larger on development sites require a forest conservation plan under Chapter 22A. Roadside trees always require MCDOT permission.
What is a specimen tree in Montgomery County?
A specimen tree is generally 30 inches DBH or larger, or 24 inches for certain species like American beech and white oak. These receive the highest protection under Chapter 22A and require Planning Board approval for removal.
Takoma Park FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in my yard in Takoma Park?
Yes, if the tree has a circumference of 24 inches or more at chest height (about 7.6 inches in diameter). Contact the city arborist to apply for a tree removal permit before any work begins.
What if a tree is about to fall on my house?
Emergency removal of an imminently hazardous tree may proceed without a permit, but you must notify the city arborist within 48 hours and provide photo documentation of the hazard.
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