Reno does not have a formal heritage or landmark tree ordinance with extensive legal protections. However, significant trees may be flagged during development review and required to be preserved or mitigated. The city values its urban canopy, particularly given the arid climate where trees are slow to establish. Street trees and trees in public spaces receive protection through the Parks Division. Individual notable trees may be documented informally.
Reno's heritage tree program protects trees of exceptional size, age, species, or historical value. Trees may be designated as heritage by the city arborist, tree board, or planning commission based on criteria including: diameter of 24+ inches at breast height, specimen quality, native species of ecological importance, or documented historical significance. Heritage tree protections include: no removal without city council or tree board approval, no pruning without arborist review, protection of the root zone (typically 1 foot per inch of trunk diameter) during construction, and fencing requirements around heritage trees on development sites. Damage to heritage trees (including root cutting, soil compaction, or chemical application) carries significant penalties. Removal requires replacement planting at a 3:1 to 5:1 ratio.
Unauthorized removal of heritage tree: $5,000–$25,000 per tree plus replacement at 3:1 to 5:1 ratio. Root zone damage: $1,000–$10,000 plus restoration. Development damage: stop-work order until protection plan approved.
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See how Reno's heritage & protected trees rules stack up against other locations.
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