• Date Due: November 01, 2026
  • Author: Institute for Coastal Adaptation and Resilience
  • Enabling Authority: Chapter 626 Enactment Clause 2. (Regular Session, 2026)
  • Description:
    Report on the findings and recommendations of the work group convened to conduct a comprehensive review of §§ 15.2-961, 15.2-961.1, and 15.2-961.3 of the Code of Virginia and all applicable state agency regulations and guidance memorandums related to the conservation and replacement of tree canopy, and to (i) evaluate policies to increase tree canopy in the Commonwealth in a manner that balances state and local environmental and economic development objectives; (ii) identify incentives to preserve healthy mature trees; (iii) analyze and identify methods in which parity can be created for tree canopy requirements across local governments; and (iv) develop recommendations to provide regulatory assurance and cost-effective methods for tree canopy conservation and replacement for developers. [Reporting requirements of Chapter 511, Enactment Clause 2., 2026 Acts of Assembly, are identical.]