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Newport News, VA Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)

Some Restrictions

Verified 4 weeks ago|Source: Newport News City Code Chapter 44 – Vegetation, Article II Trees and Shrubs →

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Key Facts

Governing section: City Code Ch. 44, Art. II, § 44-90
Designation authority: Tree Commission recommends; City Council approves
Public hearing required: Yes, prior to designation
Max civil penalty per tree: $2,500 (VA Code § 10.1-1127.1)

Summary

Newport News Chapter 44, Article II regulates city-designated historic and specimen trees. The Tree Commission may recommend official designations to City Council after a public hearing. Designated trees receive special protections; removal requires a permit and is subject to review. Virginia law caps civil penalties at $2,500 per violation.

Full Breakdown

Newport News City Code Chapter 44 (Vegetation), Article II (Trees and Shrubs), § 44-90 authorizes the Tree Commission to recommend to City Council that specific trees within the city be officially designated as historic or specimen trees. Designation requires a public hearing before City Council approval. "Historic" trees have notable cultural or historical significance; "specimen" trees are exceptional for their species by size and quality. Once designated, a historic or specimen tree may not be removed, substantially pruned, or damaged without a permit from the Director of Parks and Forestry. Trees designated as street, park, memorial, and other public trees are governed by the same chapter. Virginia Code § 10.1-1127.1 authorizes local tree-conservation ordinances and caps civil penalties

Violations & Fines

Unauthorized removal or damage of a designated historic or specimen tree is a civil violation; Newport News may seek civil penalties up to $2,500 per tree under VA Code § 10.1-1127.1, plus replacement costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a tree get designated as a heritage or specimen tree in Newport News?

The Tree Commission recommends candidates to City Council, which holds a public hearing and votes to officially designate the tree under Chapter 44, Article II, § 44-90.

Can I remove a city-designated historic tree on my private property?

Not without a permit from the Director of Parks and Forestry. Unauthorized removal is a civil violation with penalties up to $2,500 per tree plus replacement costs.

How do I find out if a tree on my property is officially designated?

Contact Newport News Parks and Forestry at 757-926-8600 or visit the city's Code Data page at nnva.gov/442 to check the register of designated trees.

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See how Newport News's heritage & protected trees rules stack up against other locations.

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Newport News, VA Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)

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