The Tree Protection Ordinance is part of a continued commitment to sustainability with the potential to reduce carbon emissions and decrease the urban “heat-island” effect. The Town Council adopted a Tree Protection Ordinance that identified tree canopy as a resource to be considered during development applications in Chapel Hill. The ordinance calls for a balanced approach to protecting trees without over regulation of residential properties and property owners.

To access the Tree Protection Ordinance, see Appendix A, Article 5.7 in of the Chapel Hill Code of Ordinances
Tree Protection Ordinance

Two support documents that assist with measuring and calculating tree canopy:

• Tree Canopy Measurement Template (for the Design Manual)
• Steps for Measuring Canopy (for the Design Manual)

Contact Us

Information: planning@townofchapelhill.org or (919) 968-2728

When Trees are Removed

The Town reviews proposals for tree removal work closely. Whether it is a tree that is declining and posing a public safety hazard on a Town-maintained street or a utility easement, sometimes this type of tree work is necessary. Town trees are protected by Town ordinance and are only removed after careful review.