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Newport News, VA Tree Protection: Tree Replacement Requirements (2026)

Some Restrictions

Verified 3 weeks ago|Source: Newport News City Code Chapter 33.02 – Site Regulations →

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Key Facts

Low-density residential canopy: 20% at year 20
Commercial/high-density canopy: 10% at year 20
Permit required before removal: Site plan + land-disturbing permit
Replacement credit tree min.: 2-inch caliper, 8 ft tall

Summary

Newport News requires minimum tree canopy coverage on development and redevelopment sites under Chapter 33.02 (Site Regulations). A site plan and land-disturbing permit must be obtained before removing trees that change land contours. Canopy targets vary by zoning district, and healthy preserved trees may count toward replacement credit.

Full Breakdown

Newport News City Code Chapter 33.02 (Site Regulations) requires all site plans to clearly show existing tree canopy limits and provide an accounting of trees to remain. Trees may not be removed in a manner that changes existing land contours without an approved site plan and land-disturbing permit. Minimum canopy coverage at year twenty after planting is 20 percent for low-density residential zones (RR-1, R-2, R-5) and 10 percent for higher-density residential and commercial zones. Existing healthy deciduous trees of at least 2-inch caliper (measured 6 inches above ground) and at least 8 feet tall that are preserved and protected on-site may count toward replacement requirements. Chapter 45 (Zoning Ordinance) provides parallel landscaping standards. Violations are enforced by Codes Compliance.

Violations & Fines

Unauthorized tree removal violating Chapter 33.02 constitutes a Class 1 misdemeanor. Each individual tree unlawfully removed is treated as a separate violation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do homeowners need a permit to cut down a tree on their own property?

For undeveloped or development-related work that changes land contours, yes — an approved site plan and land-disturbing permit are required before trees are removed under Chapter 33.02.

Can I count existing trees toward my site's canopy requirement?

Yes. Healthy deciduous trees of 2-inch caliper or more that are preserved and protected during construction may be counted toward canopy replacement targets.

What happens if a developer removes trees without a permit?

Each tree unlawfully removed is a separate Class 1 misdemeanor violation under Chapter 33.02, enforced by Newport News Codes Compliance.

How does Newport News compare?

See how Newport News's tree replacement requirements rules stack up against other locations.

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Newport News, VA Tree Protection: Tree Replacement Requirements (2026)

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