Greensboro Tree Code Chapter 44 protects significant and heritage trees on public and certain private properties, requiring permits before removal of trees that meet diameter, age, or species-listed thresholds across the city.
Chapter 44 of the Greensboro City Code regulates tree planting, preservation, and removal. The Tree Conservation Ordinance designates certain native species and exceptional trees by diameter as protected. Removal of regulated trees requires a permit issued by the City Arborist after site review and, when applicable, mitigation through replacement planting or fee-in-lieu. The ordinance applies fully on city-owned property and right-of-way and within site-plan-reviewed development. Single-family lot owners enjoy broader removal latitude on truly private trees, but trees in public right-of-way fronting any property remain city-regulated regardless of who maintains the lawn.
Removing a protected tree without a permit can lead to civil penalties up to several hundred dollars per tree plus mandatory replacement at the appraised value. Damaging protected trees on public property is a misdemeanor under state law.
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See how Greensboro's protected tree species rules stack up against other locations.
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