Rockville Amends Forest and Tree Preservation Ordinance
February 3, 2026
The Mayor and Council approved amendments to the city’s forest and tree preservation ordinance in January, expanding tree protections, adding new requirements for native tree plantings and encouraging greater biodiversity.
The changes took effect immediately. The amendments also update administrative provisions intended to improve efficiency while strengthening long-term protections for the city’s tree canopy.
Rockville has been designated a Tree City USA for more than 35 consecutive years and is known for its extensive urban forest canopy. The updated ordinance builds on those efforts by reinforcing protections for trees and forested areas across the city. The amendments were initiated in response to changes in state forestry regulations.
In 2023, the Maryland General Assembly approved legislation intended to reduce the loss of forest and tree canopy statewide by establishing new standards and requirements. As part of the update process, Rockville evaluated additional changes to the ordinance.
Throughout 2024, the city provided opportunities for public input and gathered recommendations from the Mayor and Council. City staff developed proposed revisions, including changes that support efforts to improve development application efficiency.
After drafting the amended ordinance, staff worked with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources throughout much of 2025 to ensure compliance with state law.
More information about the forest and tree preservation ordinance is available at rockvillemd.gov/forest-and-tree-preservation.