Subject:
Title
Vienna Green Streets Policy - Proposed Amendments to Street Tree Planting Requirements
Body
PURPOSE:
Council is requested to provide directional feedback on the Tree Advocacy Committee's proposed amendments to the Vienna Green Streets Policy concerning street tree plantings in the public right-of-way.
KEY QUESTIONS:
Should the Vienna Green Streets Policy be amended to eliminate the ability of owners of properties undergoing development to decline/opt-out of the planting of one or more Town-purchased street trees within the public right-of-way adjacent to the development site when recommended by the Town Arborist?
BACKGROUND SUMMARY:
On March 9, 2026, the Town Council held a work session to discuss recommendations from the Tree Advocacy Committee (TAC) related to preserving, enhancing, and expanding Vienna's urban tree canopy. During that discussion, Council expressed general support for many of TAC's recommendations but identified differing viewpoints regarding the current Vienna Green Streets Policy, which allows property owners to decline the planting of Town-funded street trees within the public right-of-way adjacent to their property. Council discussed several potential approaches, including distinguishing between existing residential properties and new development, establishing an appeals process, enhancing public outreach and education, and identifying opportunities to increase street tree planting while balancing private property concerns. TAC was encouraged to further refine its recommendations for future Council consideration.
Following additional review, the Tree Advocacy Committee formally requested that the Town Council amend the Vienna Green Streets Policy to eliminate the street tree opt-out provision for both existing developed properties and properties under development (new or redevelopment). The proposed amendments were presented to the Town Council at its June 1, 2026, meeting. Following discussion, Council determined that a...
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