Trees in Alexandria, VA
No permit is needed to remove a tree on an existing house lot outside an RPA. When work needs a grading plan, the lot must reach 25% tree canopy by planting or preserving trees (§ 7-2200).
A person last checked these rules on October 20, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Alexandria before you build.
The details
- The canopy rule covers single- and two-unit lots outside Old and Historic Alexandria and Parker-Gray.High confidence
- In an RPA, clearing vegetation needs city review.Medium confidence
Check a project at your address
SetbackIQ reads the zoning, flood zone, historic district, and environmental maps for your lot. Then it applies these rules.
Common questions
- Can I take down a tree on my own lot in Alexandria?
- No permit is needed to remove a tree on an existing house lot outside an RPA. When work needs a grading plan, the lot must reach 25% tree canopy by planting or preserving trees (§ 7-2200).
Sources
- City of Alexandria Zoning Ordinance §§ 7-101, 7-1005, 7-2200 (Municode, Supp. 103). Checked 2026-10-21
[7-101 permitted accessory uses] (E) Private swimming pool... (G) Freestanding air conditioning machinery... (M) Solar energy system... [7-1005] not more than 50 percent of such front, side or rear yard is used for parking of automobiles, including driveway…
- Virginia Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area Designation and Management Regulations (9VAC25-830-80, -140). Checked 2026-10-21
Land development may be allowed in the Resource Protection Area, subject to approval by the local government, only if it [is water dependent, is redevelopment, or fits the other listed cases]... The 100-foot wide buffer area shall be the landward component …
Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal or professional advice for any one property. Codes change. SetbackIQ is not a zoning determination, a permit, or a survey, and it does not replace an architect, engineer, or lawyer. Confirm with your building and zoning offices before you build, buy, or sign a contract.