Colonie, NY Tree Protection: Tree Replacement Requirements (2026)

Colonie's tree-replacement framework operates through Planning Board conditions imposed during subdivision and site-plan review under Chapter 177 (Trees) (https://ecode360.com/13241663) and Chapter 190 (Zoning and Land Use) (https://ecode360.com/13241671). The Code does not impose a fixed numeric replacement ratio town-wide; instead, the Planning Board reviews each application's tree inventory and may require replacement plantings as a condition of approval, taking into account: the number, species, and diameter of removed trees; the developed environment; stormwater and erosion-control needs; and recommendations from the Conservation Advisory Council (https://www.colonie.org/boards/cac/) following its site-visit and landscape-plan review. Common Capital-Region practice in municipalities of Colonie's size applies a sliding-scale replacement based on diameter at breast height (DBH) - typically 1:1 for small-caliper trees, 2:1 for mid-size, and 3:1 for mature specimens - with replacement caliper of 2 to 2.5 inches and a one- to two-year survivability warranty backed by a surety bond or landscape bond held until inspection acceptance. Species are typically drawn from native or proven non-invasive lists appropriate to USDA Hardiness Zone 5b-6a (oaks, maples, serviceberry, hackberry, river birch, and disease-resistant elm cultivars). Right-of-way replacement trees are coordinated with the Department of Public Works. Site-development projects disturbing one acre or more must also comply with NYS DEC SPDES GP-0-20-001 erosion-and-sediment-control requirements under 6 NYCRR Part 750 administered through the Albany County Soil and Water Conservation District. The Town's annual Tree and Shrub Giveaway at the Pruyn House supports voluntary native plantings beyond regulated replacement.