New York, NY Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)

NYC does not have a standalone heritage or champion tree ordinance, but notable trees receive protection through several overlapping mechanisms. The Parks Department maintains the Great Trees of New York City program, which identifies and documents trees of exceptional age, size, species rarity, or historical significance across the five boroughs. These trees — including the Alley Pond Giant (a tulip tree estimated at 350+ years old in Queens) — receive priority maintenance and protection by Parks forestry staff. All street trees already have strong legal protections under Admin Code §18-129 regardless of heritage status. In Landmark-designated districts and on individual landmark properties, the LPC considers the impact on significant trees when reviewing alteration applications. The Natural Areas Conservancy helps protect old-growth trees within NYC's 10,000+ acres of natural areas. Community groups frequently advocate for specific trees facing development threats. NYC has no formal process for private individuals to nominate heritage trees for legal protection, but community pressure and Council member intervention often provide de facto protection.