Charlotte's tree canopy program prioritizes plantings in historically lower-canopy, lower-income neighborhoods identified by equity mapping. TreesCharlotte and the city run free yard-tree giveaways and right-of-way plantings in target areas.
Tree canopy in Charlotte ranges from over 60% in older affluent neighborhoods to under 20% in some historically Black and lower-income census tracts — a legacy of redlining and disinvestment. The city's Tree Canopy Action Plan and partner nonprofit TreesCharlotte target plantings to close this gap, hosting NeighborWoods events where qualifying residents receive free yard trees and planting assistance. Council also directs capital tree-planting funds toward right-of-way and park plantings in low-canopy community areas. The UDO's standard tree-save and replacement rules apply citywide regardless of equity status.
No fines tied to equity programs themselves; standard Chapter 19 tree-removal penalties apply in all neighborhoods uniformly.
Charlotte, NC
Charlotte's Tree Ordinance (Chapter 21) provides strong protections for heritage trees. A heritage tree is generally defined as any tree with a diameter at b...
Charlotte, NC
Charlotte requires replacement planting when heritage trees are removed. The tree replacement ratio and specific requirements are determined during the permi...
See how Charlotte's urban forest equity rules stack up against other locations.
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