Expanding Local Authority to Preserve the Tree Canopy

A bill which expands the authority of local governments regarding tree conservation and replacement during the development process (Virginia House Bill 549-HB549) has passed the House with a 64-34 vote and has been referred to the Senate Committee on Local Government.

The bill was introduced by Delegate Patrick A. Hope (Democrat, House District 1 – Arlington County).

Loudoun and other northern Virginia counties continue to lose tree canopy to development. This loss of tree canopy hinders local government efforts to manage stormwater, flooding, and mitigation against the most harmful effects of climate change. Of the amount of forest and urban trees lost each year, roughly 10% became impervious surfaces – increasing stormwater runoff and amplifying the heat island effect.

HB 549 will allow local governments to establish tree canopy preservation goals to conserve existing trees. In addition, the bill changes the projected timeframe for meeting minimum tree canopy requirements from 20 years to 10 years in certain instances and directs the Institute for Coastal Adaptation and Resilience to convene a work group to review tree canopy laws and report findings by November 1, 2026.

Friends will continue to follow and report on the progress of this bill.