Richmond County, NY Tree Protection: Tree Replacement Requirements (2026)

Richmond County enforces tree replacement more aggressively than any other NYC borough due to SI's environmental overlays. Under NYC Zoning Resolution §105-41 (Special Natural Area District), every tree of 6 inches DBH or greater that is approved for removal must be replaced on a DBH-for-caliper basis — typically one 3-inch caliper replacement per 6 inches of DBH removed, with larger specimens requiring multiple replacements. In the Lower Density Growth Management Area (ZR §107-00 covering most of SI south of the Expressway), site plans must preserve or replace specified tree-count densities (minimum 1 tree per 500 sq ft of lot area in some sub-districts). Street tree replacement under NYC Admin Code §18-107(d) requires restitution equal to the appraised tree value (International Society of Arboriculture trunk-formula method) plus $2,500 per tree administrative fee when immediate on-site replacement is infeasible. NYC's MillionTreesNYC and Cool Neighborhoods programs encourage replanting on Staten Island's heat-vulnerable neighborhoods (Stapleton, Port Richmond). Approved species lists favor NY natives (red oak, sweetgum, American hornbeam) and avoid invasive callery pear. Replacement trees require 2-year establishment guarantee and must be planted in the same growing season when feasible.