Do I Need a Permit to Remove a Tree in My Yard?

Nicole Chicas
May 20
2 min read

Updated: Jul 30

Removing a tree from your property can seem like a simple weekend project—but many jurisdictions regulate it to protect public safety, preserve heritage trees, and manage urban canopies. Before you rent that stump grinder, let’s break down when you need a permit in Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia—and what steps to follow to stay compliant.

Why Permits Exist

Safety: Ensures removal is done without risk to people, utilities, or structures.
Conservation: Protects heritage, specimen, or ecologically valuable trees.
Canopy Management: Helps municipalities track and replace lost tree cover.

Skipping the permit can mean fines, stop-work orders, or even mandatory replanting.

Laws & Regulations in Virginia, Maryland, and DC

Virginia

Local Tree Conservation Ordinances

Under § 10.1-1127.1 of the Virginia Code, counties and cities may adopt ordinances regulating the removal of heritage, specimen, memorial, and street trees—often setting size thresholds (e.g., 12″+ diameter) and replanting requirements .
State Rights-of-Way

Any trimming or cutting of trees within VDOT rights-of-way requires a vegetation‐control permit from VDOT per 24 VAC 30-200-20 .
General Trespass Law

Virginia Code § 18.2-140 makes it unlawful to cut or destroy trees on another’s property or public land without written permission .

Maryland

Roadside Tree Law (Public Right-of-Way)

The Maryland Roadside Tree Law mandates a Tree Care Permit from the DNR Forest Service before trimming, removing, or caring for any tree in a public road right-of-way .
Exemptions

No permit is required if the tree is broken and in contact with utility wires, or poses an immediate danger to people or property .
Private Property

State law does not regulate removal of trees on private land, but many counties have their own ordinances—check your local forestry or zoning office.

District of Columbia

Public Space Tree Permit

Any planting, pruning, or removal of trees within the public right-of-way (street trees) requires a Public Space Tree Permit from DDOT’s Urban Forestry Division .
- Special Tree Permit:
  
  Removal of trees 44″–99.9″ in circumference requires a Special Tree Permit; heritage trees (≥100″) can only be removed under strict criteria.
Special Tree Protections

Under D.C. Code § 8-651.04, removing or damaging any “Special Tree” without a Mayor-issued permit is unlawful and carries fines based on tree size .
Private Trees

No permit is needed for most private-property tree removals, unless the tree is designated “historic” or “special” by Urban Forestry regulations.

Step-by-Step: Getting Your Permit

Identify Your Tree
- Measure diameter at 4½ ft (DBH) or circumference.
- Note species, location (yard vs. public right-of-way).
Find the Right Office
- VA: Local planning/zoning or VDOT (for rights-of-way).
- MD: Maryland DNR Forest Service (for roadside trees).
- DC: DDOT Urban Forestry (for street trees).
Complete the Application
- Attach photos/site plan if required.
- Pay any fees (often based on size or number of trees).
Schedule Inspection
- Some jurisdictions require an on-site visit.
Keep Your Permit On-Site
- Display or carry proof during removal.

How an Arborist Can Help

Accurate Documentation: We’ll measure, photograph, and identify species correctly.
Permit Preparation: We assemble and submit forms, photos, and fee payments.
Faster Approvals: Certified professionals often get expedited review.
Safe Compliance: We handle both the paperwork and the removal, so you stay protected.