Providence, RI Tree Protection: Tree Replacement Requirements (2026)

Providence County tree replacement rules follow the same split as removal rules: mandatory for public/street trees and development projects, generally voluntary for private yards. Providence City Forester requires 1:1 or 2:1 replacement for any authorized street tree removal, with replacement trees meeting minimum 2-inch caliper and drawn from an approved urban-tolerant species list (London planetree, zelkova, honey locust, oaks). Cranston, Warwick, Pawtucket, Woonsocket, and East Providence impose similar replacement through their tree wardens under RIGL §2-14. Fee-in-lieu is accepted in Providence when planting space is inadequate, with funds going to the city forestry account. Major development projects subject to planning board review must provide tree inventory and replacement plans. CRMC coastal zone disturbance triggers replacement requirements along shorelines. RI DEM wetland projects require replacement at ratios up to 3:1 in regulated areas under 250-RICR-150-15. Maintenance and watering periods of 1-2 years are typical. Invasive species (Norway maple, tree-of-heaven) are prohibited as replacements.