Herndon, VA Environmental Rules: Grading & Drainage (2026)

The Town of Herndon protects trees through Chapter 82 (Tree Preservation) of the Town Code and its Tree Preservation Ordinance, adopted under the authority of Virginia Code §15.2-961 and the Virginia Tree Conservation Act of 1989. Any tree with a diameter at breast height (DBH, measured 4.5 feet above ground) of 24 inches or greater on non-exempt properties, and all designated Heritage Trees, require a removal permit from the Town Arborist or Urban Forester. Heritage Trees are those designated by the Town for exceptional size, species rarity, historic association, or ecological value. On single-family residential properties already improved, trees can typically be removed with minimal review unless the tree is a Heritage Tree or located within a conservation easement. On properties undergoing subdivision, site plan approval, or significant development, tree canopy requirements apply: new residential developments generally must preserve or plant trees to achieve 20-25% canopy cover at 20 years post-construction, per state canopy standards. Construction within the critical root zone (typically 1 foot radius per 1 inch DBH) requires tree protection fencing at the drip line, and grade changes within root zones are prohibited. Removal of dead, dying, hazardous, or invasive trees (such as Tree of Heaven or Callery Pear) is typically permitted without restriction. Replacement trees are required for permitted removals at ratios of 1:1 to 3:1 depending on the species and size removed. Street trees in the public right-of-way are Town-owned and cannot be pruned or removed by residents without Town authorization. Violations can result in fines of 200-500 dollars per tree plus required replacement at enhanced ratios.