D.C. Code § 8-651.04: Preservation of Special Trees; permits; penalties.

(a)

It shall be unlawful for any person or entity, including the District government, without a Special Tree removal permit issued by the Mayor, to top, cut down, remove, girdle, break, or destroy any Special Tree.

(b)

The Mayor shall issue a Special Tree removal permit under this section where the applicant has:

(1)

Shown that the Special Tree in question is a Hazardous Tree;

(2)

Shown that the Special Tree in question is of a species that has been identified, by regulation, as appropriate for removal; or

(3)

Paid into the Tree Fund an amount not less than $55 for each inch of the circumference of the Special Tree in question.

(4)

Repealed.

(c)

Repealed.

(d)

A violation of subsection (a) of this section, or a failure to comply with the conditions contained in a Special Tree removal permit, shall constitute a violation subject to a fine of not less than $300 per each inch of the circumference of the Special Tree in question.

(e)

(1)

The Mayor shall, beginning July 1, 2029, and every 3 years thereafter, increase the fee described in subsection (b)(3) of this section and the fine described in subsection (d) of this section by regulation to adjust for inflation using the Consumer Price Index.

(2)

In addition to the increases under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Mayor may increase the fee described in subsection (b)(3) of this section or the fine described in subsection (d) of this section by regulation.