§ 8–651.03. Urban Forest Preservation Program.

(a)(1) There is hereby established an Urban Forest Preservation Program for the District of Columbia which shall be administered by the Mayor. The Mayor, pursuant to subchapter I of Chapter 5 of Title 2, shall promulgate standards and regulations governing the administration of this program and the protection of trees.

(2) The regulations shall allow public utility companies regulated by the Public Service Commission to conduct utility construction, line maintenance, and emergency work within the District’s rights-of-way without a Special Tree removal permit otherwise required by this chapter.

(b) Repealed.

(c) The Mayor shall be responsible for preparing and annually updating a 5-year urban forest report and master plan.