Richmond’s Museum District is a vibrant neighborhood nestled between the James River and Carytown. It is home to some of the city’s most esteemed cultural institutions, including the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Historical Society, and the Science Museum of Virginia. The neighborhood is also known for its beautiful architecture, with many historic homes and buildings lining its streets. Unfortunately, the Museum District has been plagued by tree removal in recent years. As a result, the neighborhood has lost many of its mature trees, which provided shade, beauty, and wildlife habitat. The removal of these trees has also led to increased stormwater runoff, soil erosion, and air pollution. In response to the concerns of residents, the City of Richmond has implemented a new tree ordinance that is designed to protect trees and promote their planting. The ordinance requires property owners to obtain a permit before removing any tree with a diameter of 12 inches or more. The ordinance also sets standards for tree planting and maintenance. Residents who are considering removing a tree should first contact the City of Richmond to determine if a permit is required. If a permit is required, the property owner must submit an application to the city. The application will be reviewed by a city arborist, who will make a determination on whether or not to issue a permit. If a permit is issued, the property owner must hire a qualified tree removal company to remove the tree. The tree removal company must follow the city’s tree ordinance and must remove the tree in a safe and professional manner. Residents who are considering planting a tree should contact the City of Richmond’s Department of Parks, Recreation, and Community Facilities. The department can provide information on the best trees to plant and can assist with the planting process.