Trees

Mission

DDOT preserves and maintains the District's street tree population, as it is a natural resource that performs numerous environmental benefits while enhancing both the quality of life and aesthetic value of the city. DDOT's fulfills this mission by:

• Maintaining a tree inventory system;
• Performing routine tree maintenance;
• Reviewing transportation related construction plans to ensure the provision of adequate rights-of-way for tree planting; and
• Planting, removing, and trimming trees citywide.

Procedures & Services

Removal of Live Public Space Trees

Removal Policy of Live Public Space Trees for Development

Tree Maintenance

Residents may request tree inspections, tree planting, tree pruning, and investigation into tree removal by calling 311, or visiting 311 Online.

• Standards for Street Tree Services

Tree Permits

Anyone who wishes to plant, prune, or remove a public street tree within public space must first obtain a public space permit from DDOT. All public space permits may be obtained through DDOT's Transportation Online Permitting System (TOPS), or by submitting an application in-person at DDOT's Permitting Center.

• Public Space Tree Permit

Note: Neither DDOT, nor the District government, is responsible for the maintenance, removal, or upkeep of trees on private property.

Energy Savings Initiative - Increasing Urban Tree Canopy

Tree Fence Specifications 

Tree Pit Guard–1st Street Typical 

Edge Restraint

Structural Soil 

See Related

• Page:
  Trees and Construction (Compendium)
• Page:
  Trees (Compendium)
• Page:
  Special Trees (Compendium)
• Page:
  Ginkgo Trees (Compendium)