Virginia Senate Bill SB316

Virginia 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24
• Report Pass: 1/22/24
• Engrossed: 1/24/24
• Refer: 2/13/24
• Report Pass: 2/23/24

Caption

Trees; Town of Vienna allowed to require subdivision/development provide for preservation, etc.

Impact

The bill is expected to enhance local governance regarding environmental conservation and urban development. By necessitating developers to preserve or replace trees, it aims to improve air quality and promote ecological benefits in areas suffering from ozone pollution. This legislation reflects a growing recognition of the importance of trees for air purification and overall public health. It empowers localities to implement more robust environmental standards tailored to meet their unique challenges related to urbanization and pollution.

Summary

SB316 proposes amendments to §15.2-961.1 of the Code of Virginia, allowing localities classified as nonattainment areas for air quality to enforce tree conservation during the land development process. The bill establishes mandatory tree canopy requirements that must be met 20 years post-development based on the zoning of the site. For instance, it delineates specific canopy cover percentages for various types of developments, ensuring sustainable landscaping practices are integrated into urban development plans.

Contention

Debate surrounding SB316 includes concerns about the balance between development and environmental preservation. Proponents argue that enforcing tree canopy requirements is critical for mitigating climate change effects and protecting local ecosystems, while opponents suggest that such mandates could hinder development flexibility or increase costs for builders. Additionally, there is potential pushback regarding the implementation of these regulations, particularly among developers who might view them as an added bureaucratic hurdle in the construction process.