Street and Park Tree Management
About Street and Park Tree Management
Rockville values its trees and forests for the many benefits they provide to the community. City trees include those in city parks and street trees located within the public right-of-way, typically between the curb and sidewalk.
Under the Maryland Roadside Tree Law, administered by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the city is responsible for maintaining street trees within the public right-of-way. This includes pruning, removing hazardous or dead trees, and planting new trees.
As a public agency, the City of Rockville follows the regulations of the Roadside Tree Blanket Permit, issued to the city annually by the DNR. Performing any tree care on a roadside tree without a permit can result in fines or other enforcement actions by the DNR Forest Service. Residents should not prune, remove, plant, or conduct any other activity within the right-of-way.
The Master Street Tree Plan outlines the city’s commitment to safe, healthy, and attractive street trees. It guides how the city preserves existing trees, selects appropriate replacement species, maintains consistent streetscapes, and diversifies the urban forest for long-term health. The plan emphasizes planting in every suitable space, removing trees only when necessary, and adapting species choices based on environmental conditions.
Spotted Lanternfly Information
The spotted lanternfly (SLF) is a nonnative invasive insect from Asia. It does not bite or sting and is generally considered a nuisance in urban areas, but it can threaten certain agricultural crops in Maryland, especially grapevines. The state recommends physically killing SLF whenever possible. More information is available on the University of Maryland Extension website.
The city does not currently plan to control SLF beyond the University of Maryland recommendations. Chemical treatments are not advised because they can harm pollinators and other beneficial insects. Natural predators are beginning to feed on SLF, which may help reduce their population over time. City staff will continue to monitor guidance from the University of Maryland and respond as needed.
SLF’s preferred host tree is the tree of heaven (ToH). The city generally leaves these trees in place to attract SLF, rather than attempting to eradicate ToH, which is not feasible. This strategy helps protect more desirable species, such as red maple, black walnut, and styrax, from damage.
Contact
Recreation and Parks Department
Parks and Facilities Division
240-314-8700
forestry@rockvillemd.gov
Hours
Monday – Friday
7 a.m. – 3 p.m.