Urban Forestry
This page provides information on a variety of programs, policies, studies, and efforts related to urban forest management. The Charlottesville Parks and Recreation department is responsible for planting, maintenance, and removal of trees on public properties including parks, schools, street right-of-ways, and public buildings. The City of Charlottesville takes an active role in our urban forest through:
- Education
- Expansion
- Monitoring
- Preservation
- Protection
Best Management Practices for Tree Preservation, Transplanting, and Removal (PDF)
The City of Charlottesville has created this guide for homeowners, developers and others related to the care and preservation of trees. The City also publishes a Standards and Design Manual of specific requirements and specifications for work built in public areas of the City.
See also: Tree Conservation
Charlottesville Comprehensive Tree List (PDF)
This list was developed by the Tree Commission and Charlottesville Parks and Recreation staff to assist homeowners and developers when selecting and planting trees.
See also: Tree Inventory & Interactive Dashboard
Downtown Mall Tree Assessment Report (PDF)
The City of Charlottesville commissioned James Urban and Keith Pitchford to develop an assessment of trees on the Downtown Mall. These trees, many of which are now mature willow oaks, were planted in 1976 as part of Lawrence Halprin’s design for the new Downtown Mall. As the trees have grown, some have grown too close together and challenges have arisen with regard to proper maintenance and assuring the long-term survival of the trees, as well as remaining true to the historic design. This report addresses these challenges and the City is proactively planning to manage the Mall trees in the coming years by developing specific recommendations for each group of trees.
Invasive Plant Inventory (PDF)
This assessment of public lands was conducted to determine the extent, type, and management options for exotic trees, vines, and other plants that threaten our urban forests and landscapes. Invasive plant species management techniques (PDF) for various invasive species are included in the report appendix. Take a look at the Charlottesville Vegetative Debris Management Plan (PDF) for more details.
In addition to the resources on this website and in City parks, the City of Charlottesville helps educate the public in several other important ways:
Jefferson Park Avenue Utility Friendly Arboretum
The Jefferson Park Avenue (JPA) Utility Friendly Arboretum (PDF) showcases tree species that fit under and above utilities without needing pruning and that do not impact the utilities around them. Visit the median along JPA to see trees and learn more about how you can plant similar trees on your property.
Tree City USA Recognition
Charlottesville has received Tree City USA Recognition since 2006 and received a "Growth Award" in 2010 for its efforts to further improve its forestry management.
Arbor Day Celebration
The City of Charlottesville holds an annual Arbor Day celebration. For more about the Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree City USA Program, visit the Tree City USA website.
Urban Forest Management Plan (PDF)
This plan has been developed that supports the City’s historical commitments, is strategic in structure and will enable Charlottesville to be proactive in the stewardship of our natural resources, both public and private.
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CityGreen Map
Charlottesville is committed to sustainability and promotes green practices that improve the quality of our natural resources and that contribute to healthier natural habitat, increased recreational opportunities, and improved aesthetics. Please enjoy this interactive map to find projects and resources, access additional information, and get inspired.
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Tree Commission
The City has appointed a Tree Commission to help advise staff and council on urban forest management efforts and policies.
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Tree Conservation
Take a look at our tree conservation ordinances and nominate a tree for conservation.
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Tree Inventory & Interactive Dashboard
In January of 2018, Charlottesville Parks and Recreation initiated a project with the goal of creating an inventory of all the trees that exist on public property within the City of Charlottesville.
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Urban Canopy Reports
The City completes a Canopy Assessment approximately every 5 years, which is paid by in part by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forestry grants. These efforts are designed to place the City in a position to manage its forests and trees in a sustainable and renewable manner, and provide for a codified program that meets the needs and values of our community.