What is that?

• A tree ordinance is a formal long-term policy for dealing properly and effectively with tree care and public policy.

Why is it important?

• A tree ordinance sets up permanent procedures and establishes legal authority.
• Not having a tree ordinance is like not having any other ordinance: there is no policy that is consistent, rational, and public
• The primary goals of a tree ordinance are:

• to establish a permanent and official policy for the community
• to declare standards for selection, planting, maintenance, etc.
• to provide a reasonable basis for dealing with the public.

How do you get one in place?

1) Find a copy of existing local code and a sample tree ordinance

-- it’s a lot easier and a lot more effective to begin with what already exists

-- you may have to change both the sample and the code to suit the needs of your community and its trees

2) Work with a small group representing various interests

-- if the ordinance is to pass, you will need broad support from the start

-- try to include people from local government, park & street maintenance, the tree care profession, utilities, and the general public

3) Make the ordinance clear, reasonable, and concise

-- if people don’t understand it, they won’t obey it

-- steer between being too rigid and being too loose

-- detailed specifications and standards can be put in a separate document

4) Keep the process as public as possible without hampering your work

-- the impression of an open and inclusive process will be your best ally

-- negotiation and compromise are the key to resolving some of the issues, because different interest groups often have different opinions

5) Follow standard procedures to get the ordinance into law

-- start with the community lawyer, so the process follows legal channels

-- when the ordinance is acceptable to all, meet with the mayor or administrator

6) Publicize the ordinance widely after it becomes law

-- members of the community need to be made aware of what it says

-- make sure local government, agencies, services, and street supervisers know

Where can I get more information?

"How to Write a Municipal Tree Ordinance" (National Arbor Day Foundation) and "A Sample Brief Tree Ordinance," both available from your local Cooperative Extension or DEC office, and also from the Community Forestry Education Project at 716-461-1000.