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Richmond, VA Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified May 2026

Tree removal permit rules in Richmond, VA, sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances, list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.

Key Facts

Code
Chapter 41
Permit body
Urban Forestry Division
Public tree fine
Up to $2,500
Private trees
Generally exempt

Summary

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 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 Species List 2024; Recommended Species (By Size); Criteria for Tree Removal in the City of Richmond.

Source: Richmond Urban Forestry DivisionView official code

Full Breakdown

Chapter 41 governs tree planting, maintenance, and removal in public spaces under the authority of the Urban Forestry Commission and the Department of Public Works. Removing any tree from a public right-of-way, park, or city-owned parcel without a permit is prohibited, regardless of whether the abutting property owner planted it. Permit applications require an inspection by the city arborist, who evaluates health, hazard, and replacement needs. Private property tree removal generally does not require a permit unless the tree is within the Chesapeake Bay Resource Protection Area buffer or part of a development site plan governed by Chapter 44 landscape standards.

Violations & Fines

Unauthorized removal of a public tree is a Class 1 misdemeanor with fines up to $2,500 plus tree replacement valued at the appraised loss using the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers methodology.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I remove a tree in my front yard?
Trees on private property are generally not regulated, but trees in the public right-of-way (between sidewalk and curb) require a city permit even if you maintain them.
What if a tree is dead or hazardous?
Contact the Urban Forestry Division for an emergency inspection. The city typically removes hazardous public trees at no cost; private hazardous trees remain the owner's responsibility.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Richmond

Parking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Height LimitsSome RestrictionsWater RestrictionsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: RV & Boat ParkingSome RestrictionsTree TrimmingSome RestrictionsWeed OrdinancesSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Barking DogsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Leaf Blower RulesSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Wildlife FeedingSignificant Restrictions

All Richmond rules

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