Maryland Big Tree and Heritage Tree Protections

Under Natural Resources Article Sections 5-401 through 5-417, the Roadside Tree Law gives the DNR Forest Service exclusive jurisdiction over trees within public road rights-of-way statewide. Any pruning, removal, or planting requires a Roadside Tree Permit, regardless of which entity owns the abutting property. The Maryland Big Tree Program tracks the largest specimen of each native species; while Big Tree status is honorary, these trees often qualify for priority protection under the Forest Conservation Act and local heritage tree ordinances. Local governments may layer additional heritage tree protections on top, but cannot override state authority over roadside trees.

Removing or damaging a roadside tree without a permit is a misdemeanor with fines up to $1,000 plus replacement value, which can exceed several thousand dollars per tree.