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.
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.
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
Additional Information
Legal References
DCMR 10-A603: E-1.1 Conserving and Expanding Our Urban Forest
DCMR 24-107: Streetlights, Street Signs, Trees, and Fixtures
Design Standards & Specifications
DDOT Design and Engineering Manual, Chapter 8 – Trees, Plants, & Landscaping
DDOT Design and Engineering Manual, Chapter 47 – Landscape Design Criteria