3 rules for unincorporated Loudoun County, Virginia.
Verified from official government sources
Loudoun County does not require tree removal permits on private residential property outside regulated areas. Tree removal in Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area Resource Protection Areas (RPAs) — 100 ft buffers along perennial streams, Potomac, Goose Creek — is heavily restricted per VA Code §10.1-2109 and Loudoun Ord. Ch. 1220. Subdivision landscape plans also protect preserved trees. Development sites follow the Facilities Standards Manual tree preservation rules. Street trees and HOA-managed trees have additional protections.
Loudoun County does not have a formal Heritage or Landmark Tree program. Protection for significant trees comes through the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area overlay (Ord. Ch. 1220), subdivision preservation plans, and historic district regulations (Goose Creek, Waterford, Middleburg, Aldie). The Loudoun County Tree Commission promotes tree stewardship. Virginia Department of Forestry maintains the Virginia Champion Tree Registry — trees listed are recognized but not legally protected by the state. Historic properties and scenic byways (Route 50, Snickersville Turnpike) have informal protections via conservation easements.
Loudoun County requires tree replacement primarily through the Facilities Standards Manual (FSM) Chapter 3 (Landscaping) for development site plans, not for residential tree removals. New subdivisions must meet canopy coverage targets (10-20% depending on zone). Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area tree removal requires restoration planting. Loudoun encourages native Virginia species (white oak, red maple, tulip poplar, flowering dogwood). The Loudoun Tree Bank and Plant NOVA Natives programs provide guidance.
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