Richmond, VA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Street Trees
- Permit required
- Private Trees
- Self-help OK
- Harm Rule
- Cannot kill tree
- Utility
- Dominion handles lines
Summary
Richmond regulates tree trimming for street trees and trees in public rights-of-way. Homeowners may trim branches overhanging their property under Virginia common law self-help rule but cannot harm the tree. Trimming of street trees requires a permit from the Department of Public Works Urban Forestry Division.
The Urban Forestry Division (UFD) is responsible for planting approximately 1,000 new and replacement trees during the planting season, October 1st through April 15th. In 2025, UFD planted 1,335 trees. UFD maintains approximately 78,300 city-owned trees of more than 80 species. The most common services UFD provides are removal of dead trees and pruning. A tree inspection may be requested by calling the City's Customer Care Center or submitting a request through RVA311. Generally, UFD crews will try to respond with an inspection within ten working days. The Urban Forestry Division also assists with community education regarding tree care, including speaking to neighborhood groups, supporting community planting efforts, and working with the city Tree Stewards program. [...] 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.
Full Breakdown
Richmond owns trees in the street right-of-way typically between sidewalk and curb. Any pruning, cutting, or topping of these street trees without a city permit is prohibited. For private trees, homeowners follow Virginia self-help common law for encroaching branches but can only trim to the property line and cannot cause tree death. Utility trimming around power lines is handled by Dominion Energy. The City Arborist manages public tree care.
Violations & Fines
Unpermitted work on street trees can result in fines up to 500 dollars plus tree replacement costs of 300 to 2,000 dollars per tree.
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Richmond
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