Definition: Trees support stormwater management by slowing the rate at which stormwater reaches the ground through the tree canopy and improving soil uptake. Planting new trees helps maintain and enhance our existing tree canopies. Greater tree canopy cover can slow the rate of runoff and reduce stress on the stormwater infrastructure system by reducing peak flows.

Guidelines: Tree selection should be appropriate for the planting location. Standards for planting shade trees, including a list of recommended varieties, can be found here in the Shade Trees section.

• New trees must be native to Virginia or the Chesapeake Bay region (as defined in the Virginia Plant Atlas, found at http://vaplantatlas.org/) and have a minimum diameter of 1 inch measured at 6 inches above the ground. Trees must be planted at least 10 feet apart.
• Large tree canopy plants planted through the Arlington County Tree Canopy Fund are eligible for credit.
• Due to their smaller size, trees (“whips”) received through Arlington County’s free tree distribution program are not eligible for credit.
• Trees are permitted if they are planted within the property lines, at least 5 feet from the property lines, and are not part of another stormwater BMP, such as rain gardens or landscape protection. Trees must not have been planted as part of a mandatory building condition or LDA permit. The applicant property must not be under development or within the maintenance guarantee period at the time new trees are planted.

Existing or new: Newly installed in the calendar year prior to the billing year.

Annual or permanent loan: Yearly

Percent credit: 5%

Minimum: See table below

Frequency of re-certification: Annual credit

Required documents:

Documents	More information
Proof of purchase Documentation of size (trunk diameter (caliper) and tree species)	If trees will be planted on the property from the Arlington County Tree Canopy Fund, administered by EcoAction Arlington and the Arlington County Forestry and Natural Resources Commission, please also include appropriate documentation (e.g., an email permit). Minimum diameter 1 inch. All trees must be native. Recommended shade trees can be found here.
Close-up of the tree Perspective photo with nearest structure in the background

Tips for success:

Follow maintenance guidelines. See: Tree Care Tips