Canopy Preservation Ordinances

Ordinances which are specific to canopy preservation will help ensure the protection of existing trees and natural wooded areas as well as encourage replacement of damaged or removed trees so that a community may benefit from a healthy urban forest. Tree Protection or Preservation Ordinances are designed to safeguard existing trees during land development and guarantee the continuation of canopy cover in communities. Land development does not need to be the end of trees!

There are many benefits derived from tree preservation and replacement.

• Energy conservation- reduced heating and cooling costs
• Improved air quality
• Reduced noise pollution and light glare
• Enhanced habitat for birds and other desirable wildlife
• Improved control of soil erosion and moderation of water runoff
• Enhanced visual and aesthetic qualities
• Increased property value

Ordinances are one of the strongest means available to a community for protecting and preserving its trees. Used correctly, ordinances can ensure and demonstrate the community’s commitment for a high standard of environmental quality, while allowing for reasonable development of lands, without causing undue hardships on developers. With careful planning and reasonable enforcement every community can protect its trees and enjoy the environmental, economic, and aesthetic benefits of canopy preservation.

Tree protection and preservation ordinances vary widely, just as trees, needs, people and topography vary from place to place. These ordinances should be designed to fit with the needs of the community. For your convenience, sample ordinances from around the state of Ohio are provided in the right sidebar.