Reno, NV Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)
Key Facts
- Designating body
- Reno Urban Forestry Commission
- Removal approval
- City council, on Commission recommendation
- Construction removal
- Must pay city tree's value
- Violation penalty
- Misdemeanor under § 8.32.180
Summary
Landmark trees on public property in Reno are designated by the Urban Forestry Commission, which keeps a running list of every tree so designated. Removing a designated landmark tree takes city council approval, plus payment to the city for the tree's value if removal is for construction.
(a)Landmark trees shall be designated by the Reno Urban Forestry Commission.(b)The urban forester shall maintain a list of all trees so designated and their location.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Administrative Code: Supplement 64 | Land Development Code: Supplement 5 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Reno's Urban Forestry Commission designates landmark trees: public-property trees with special status due to their age, size, shape, species, location, historical association, visual quality, or other contribution to the city's character (RMC § 8.32.010). The urban forester maintains the official list of designated trees and their locations (§ 8.32.035). Removing a landmark tree requires Reno City Council approval on the Commission's recommendation, and anyone removing one for construction activities must pay the city for the tree's assessed value (§ 8.32.040(c)). Violating the chapter, including ignoring an urban forester's notice, is a misdemeanor under § 8.32.180.
Violations & Fines
Removing, cutting, or damaging a designated landmark tree without city council approval violates RMC ch. 8.32 and is a misdemeanor (§ 8.32.180); removal for construction also requires compensating the city for the tree's assessed value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who designates a landmark tree in Reno?
Can a designated landmark tree be removed in Reno?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Reno
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