Emergency Tree Removal
Tree Ordinance
Tree Ordinance Services in Charlotte, Lake Norman & Asheville
Tree protection and removal regulations were created in an effort to help mitigate the loss of Charlotte’s tree canopy so that future generations have a fighting chance to view Charlotte as it has historically been known as The City of Trees. Perhaps you’ve heard that the city has had a longstanding goal to increase the tree canopy to 50% by the year 2050. Unfortunately, our canopy is shrinking, decreasing from 49% to 46% in recent years.
Naturally, one would assume the canopy loss is due to the bustling development of the city; however, newer data suggests that we are losing too many trees in our residential areas. That’s right, it is the trees in our front and backyards that need the most protection. Therefore, it is our personal and collective responsibility to care for the trees that give back to us in so many ways (think of the benefits: monetary, aesthetic, health, ecological, and environmental).
Let’s work together. Heartwood is here to help you navigate local tree regulations. Not only is it a city goal we support, but it is one that is built into our mission. Our desire is to be the Caretakers of the Crown (pun intended) and To Help Trees Outlive Humans, after all. Contact us to learn more about our tree ordinance services in Charlotte, as well as Lake Norman and Asheville, NC.
The Unified Development Ordinance of Charlotte
In an effort to preserve and protect our city’s majestic urban tree canopy, the City of Charlotte implemented the UDO (Unified Development Ordinance) on June 1, 2023. The newest addition to the ordinance, and the one most applicable to homeowners, is the concept of the Heritage Tree Preservation.
Article 20, Tree Preservation Requirements, mandates city approval for the removal of a healthy heritage tree. This requires residents to apply for a heritage tree removal permit and requires a tree planting commitment for replacement, in addition to paying a removal fee. The permit application cost is $265, and the removal fee is $500. If you choose to remove a healthy heritage tree, you will now pay at least $765 to the city of Charlotte if you forgo other mitigation options. This doesn’t include the cost of the actual removal. Our certified arborists can help you determine if this is the best path forward or if there are other options for caring for the tree and making it work for you.
Breaking Down the Tree Protection Ordinance
The Purpose of Such An Ordinance
Tree protection ordinances are put in place to protect and preserve the urban forest and its benefits. The cities of Charlotte, Lake Norman, and Asheville recognize that trees play a crucial role in the environment by improving air quality, providing habitat for wildlife, reducing stormwater runoff, and enhancing overall aesthetics. That’s why they’ve established tree ordinances that maintain a balance between development and protecting our natural resources.
Ordinances for Private Property Owners and Public Trees
Private property owners are responsible for maintaining and preserving any heritage or specimen trees located on their property in accordance with local tree ordinances. Public trees managed by the city also fall under the ordinance’s protection so that these giant plants are properly maintained and preserved for future generations to enjoy.
Heritage Trees & Specimen Trees: What Are They and Which Ones are Protected?
Under the Tree Protection Ordinance in Charlotte, there are two categories of trees that are considered protected: heritage trees and specimen trees.
A heritage tree is defined as any large, mature tree native to North Carolina, per the USDA Department of Agriculture Natural Resource Conservation Service Plants Database, that has a unique character or historical significance. These trees must meet certain size requirements, specifically having a DBH (diameter at breast height) of 30” or more. Oak, beech, pine, cedar, maple, sweetgum, and tulip poplar are all native to North Carolina and are often protected. To receive protection under the tree ordinance, heritage trees must be designated by the city.
A specimen tree is also a large, mature tree with unique character but does not have the same historical significance as a heritage tree. These trees must meet the same size requirements as heritage trees and are also designated by the city for protection.
Understanding Tree Ordinances in Lake Norman & Asheville
Each municipality in North Carolina has its own set of goals, typically focused on preserving the urban canopy, managing stormwater runoff, and maintaining the aesthetic character of the region. We covered Charlotte’s Unified Development Ordinance, and now, we want to give you a peek into specific Lake Norman and Asheville tree ordinances.
- Lake Norman Tree Ordinance: In areas like Cornelius, Davidson, Huntersville, and Mooresville, tree ordinances often intersect with shoreline management and water quality regulations. Protecting the root systems near the lake is a priority, and specific buffer zones may limit what can be removed or altered near the water’s edge.
- Asheville Tree Ordinance: Asheville’s mountainous topography presents unique challenges. That’s why the city’s tree ordinance focuses heavily on steep slope protection and the preservation of the unique Appalachian biodiversity. Developers here must balance density goals with strict tree canopy cover requirements that vary based on the zoning district.
At Heartwood Tree Care, we stay ahead of these evolving regulations so you don’t have to. Let us guide you through proper tree care with our tree protection services.
Benefits
Benefits of Our Tree Ordinance Services in Charlotte, Lake Norman, & Asheville
Additional North Carolina Tree Removal Ordinances
In addition to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), North Carolina has several other tree removal laws and regulations that property owners must be aware of to ensure compliance and protect the state’s natural resources. These regulations vary by locality, and understanding them is crucial for responsible tree management.Statewide Regulations
North Carolina’s Forest Practices Guidelines (FPGs) set forth requirements for activities that could impact water quality during tree removal. These guidelines are part of the state’s broader effort to maintain environmental health and include provisions for buffer zones around water bodies, erosion control measures, and the protection of wildlife habitats. Adhering to these guidelines is essential for any tree removal project to prevent negative environmental impacts.
Municipal Tree Ordinances
Beyond state guidelines, many municipalities in North Carolina have their own tree ordinances tailored to local needs and priorities. For example, the city of Raleigh has specific tree conservation regulations that mandate the preservation of significant tree stands during development projects. Raleigh’s ordinance requires developers to submit a tree conservation plan and obtain permits before removing certain trees, particularly those in designated tree conservation areas.
Historical and Scenic Tree Protection
Certain cities and towns, like Asheville, have ordinances aimed at protecting historical and scenic trees. Asheville’s tree protection ordinance identifies and preserves trees of historical significance, scenic value, or those contributing to the city’s character. This ordinance also includes measures for safeguarding trees during construction activities and provides guidelines for their maintenance and care.
Homeowners Association (HOA) Regulations
Many HOAs in North Carolina have their own rules regarding tree removal. These regulations can be more stringent than municipal laws, often requiring homeowners to obtain HOA approval before removing trees from their property. Our certified arborists can help HOAs navigate these rules for maintaining the aesthetic and environmental standards of the community, as well as ensure that any tree removal is done thoughtfully and responsibly.
Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA)
In coastal regions, the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) plays a critical role in tree removal activities. CAMA guidelines aim to protect the unique coastal ecosystems and require permits for significant tree removal within designated areas.
Why Choose Heartwood Tree Care for Heritage Help
Why Choose Heartwood Tree Care for Tree Ordinance Services?
Choosing Heartwood Tree Care for help with heritage trees guarantees you receive top-tier tree care backed by our numerous awards and accreditations and a dedication to superior quality and industry standards. Our tree preservation services, in particular, cater to the unique needs of these irreplaceable natural assets so that they can continue to delight generations to come.
We also provide thorough assistance for commercial/HOA services, making sure that your community’s trees remain safe, healthy, and stunning. With Heartwood Tree Care, you can trust that your trees are in the hands of those who prioritize quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.
