Rhode Island Statewide Rule

Rhode Island Public Shade Tree Removal Restrictions

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Rhode Island (2026)

Rhode Island law protects public shade trees on highway rights-of-way. RIGL 2-14 prohibits removal or substantial damage to public trees without written permission from the local tree warden.

Key Facts

Statute: RIGL 2-14
Authority: Local tree warden
Coverage: Public rights-of-way
Penalty: Triple tree value
Hearing required: Significant trees

Source: Rhode Island General Assembly

Full Breakdown

Under RIGL Title 2 Chapter 14, every Rhode Island city and town must designate a tree warden responsible for public shade trees within highway rights-of-way. No person may cut, prune, remove, or substantially injure a public shade tree without written permission from the tree warden following a public hearing process for trees of significant size. Utility line clearance must follow approved practices. The statute applies uniformly statewide; while municipalities appoint their own warden, the protection framework and permit requirement is set by state law. Trees on private property remain subject to local zoning rules.

Violations & Penalties

Unauthorized cutting or damage to public shade trees is punishable by fines up to triple the value of the tree under RIGL 2-14-3.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prune a street tree in front of my house?

Not without permission. Public shade trees in the right-of-way are protected statewide under RIGL 2-14. Contact your municipal tree warden before any cutting or pruning.

Does this law cover trees on my private property?

No. The state shade tree law applies only to trees within the public highway right-of-way. Private property trees are governed by local zoning and tree ordinances.

Sources

RIGL Title 2 Chapter 14 - Shade Trees

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