Tree removal permit rules in Washington, DC — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
DC has strong tree removal protections. Trees 44-100 inches in circumference require a removal permit from DDOT's Urban Forestry Division. Heritage Trees over 100 inches cannot be removed. The Urban Forest Preservation Act mandates replacement planting for removed trees.
DC's tree removal regulations are among the strictest in the nation. Under the Urban Forest Preservation Act and Tree Canopy Protection Act, trees on public space with a circumference of 44 to 100 inches require a removal permit from DDOT's Urban Forestry Division (UFD). Heritage Trees — those over 100 inches in circumference — cannot be removed under any circumstances. For private property trees, the District also regulates removal of significant trees and may require replacement planting. The replacement ratio depends on the size and species of the removed tree. Special Tree removal permits require payment into the Tree Fund if replacement on-site is not feasible. Developers must incorporate tree preservation into site plans, and construction activities must protect root zones of existing trees.
Unauthorized tree removal: fines based on tree size, potentially $10,000+ for Heritage Trees. Replacement planting or Tree Fund payment required.
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See how Washington's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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