Special Tree Removal Application On January 22, 2003, the DC Council passed the Urban Forest Preservation Act of 2002. The Act establishes an urban forest preservation program, requires permits for Special Tree removals or replacements, and establishes a Tree Fund to be used to plant trees and defray costs associated with the implementation of this act. The program will provide numerous environmental benefits to the city, including: Heat island effect mitigation and reduced energy use Better air quality and reduced water pollution Quieter and more beautiful neighborhoods The entire law can be read here*. Final rulemaking can be read here*. Summary of Special Tree Removal Application and Permit Process* Special Tree Removal Application & Public Space Permit Application* When applying for a Special Tree Removal Permit Application you must file a Public Space Permit Application to proceed with the removal of trees (tree) on private property. Public Space is defined as all the publicly owned property between the property lines on a street and includes, but is not limited to, the roadway, tree spaces, sidewalks and alleys. Please refer to our DCMR Title 24 for laws governing use of Public Space. * This document is presented in Portable Document Format (PDF). A PDF reader is required for viewing. Download a PDF Reader or Learn More About PDFs For more information on Special Trees, see the web page for Permit for Special Trees. Also see the Street Tree Permit page.