Rhode Island Public Shade Tree State Statute

R.I. Gen. Laws § 2-14 establishes that all trees within public ways are public shade trees under the jurisdiction of the municipal tree warden. No public shade tree may be cut down or substantially trimmed without the tree warden's written authorization following posted notice and opportunity for public hearing under § 2-14-2. The statute applies in every Rhode Island municipality and preempts inconsistent local procedures. Private trees on private property are not directly regulated by state law; local ordinances may apply. Damaging public shade trees without permission is a civil violation under § 2-14-9. The DEM Division of Forest Environment provides guidance and oversight.

Removing or damaging a public shade tree without authorization is punishable by fines up to triple the tree's appraised value under § 2-14-9, plus restoration costs.