Wilmington Tree Ordinance Review Committee September 23, 2026

The City of Wilmington's Tree Ordinance Review Committee convened on September 23, 2026, to discuss potential amendments to the city's tree ordinance aimed at improving canopy quality and increasing tree development. Key procurement-related discussions included considerations for revising protected tree species and sizes, updating technical standards, and exploring flexible critical root zone (CRZ) encroachment policies that might involve certified arborists. The committee also reviewed exemption structures for tree planting requirements, particularly for single-family homes and subdivisions, and discussed parking lot shading requirements. They planned to invite subject matter experts from various sectors, including development, utilities, and environmental organizations, to provide input on ordinance deficiencies and overreach. The committee emphasized the need for clear, site-specific native tree species recommendations and discussed the potential use of funds from a tree mitigation fund to support arborist verification and enforcement activities. A motion was passed to schedule the next meeting for October 14, 2026, focusing on expert presentations and further ordinance refinement.