Tree City USA Bulletin: How to Write a Municipal Tree Ordinance
In this issue of Tree City USA Bulletin, sections of a model ordinance are presented, explained, and illustrated with actual examples. Not every section will be appropriate to all communities, and there are others in use that are not included in this general coverage of the topic.
Making Your Community Forest-Friendly: A Worksheet for Review of Municipal Codes and Ordinances
This worksheet is designed to help communities evaluate and update their municipal codes and ordinances to better conserve existing trees and woodlands, and encourage new plantings. Developed with input from a range of experts, it provides targeted questions for local officials to assess whether their regulations support “forest-friendly” development while balancing public safety, access, and economic considerations.
Developing Successful Tree Ordinances
This guide from NC State Extension offers a step-by-step approach for municipalities looking to create or update tree ordinances, with a strong focus on practical drafting tips and legal considerations. It provides actionable checklists, sample language, and strategies for engaging both officials and community members throughout the ordinance development process.
CRTI Ordinance Builder
The Chicago Region Trees Initiative’s Ordinance Builder is an interactive online tool designed to help communities create or improve tree protection ordinances for developed properties. It provides a tiered framework, practical recommendations, and advanced options to guide local governments in establishing standards for tree care, authority, and preservation, supporting healthier and more resilient community forests.
ISA Guidelines for Developing and Evaluating Tree Ordinances
A comprehensive guide offering practical steps, annotated examples, and evaluation methods for communities drafting or revising tree ordinances.
ISA Industry Standards and Best Management Practices
The ISA Industry Standards and Best Management Practices are essential for creating a local tree ordinance because they provide clear, objective, and widely accepted guidelines for tree care, planting, maintenance, and risk management, ensuring that ordinance provisions are enforceable and defensible. By referencing these standards, communities can establish consistent performance benchmarks and procedures that align with professional best practices, support legal compliance, and help achieve long-term urban forestry goals.