Land Clearing in Virginia Beach, VA

Single-family homeowners outside protected areas generally don't need a permit to remove trees on their own lot. Permits are needed for tree removal in Chesapeake Bay Resource Protection Areas, in tree preservation areas designated on approved site plans, and for any activity in a city-owned right-of-way or easement.

Loblolly pine: tall, shallow-rooted on wet soil; wind and lightning risk Willow and water oak: large yard trees; water oak decays with age Southern live oak: at its northern limit here; wind-firm

Trees in Resource Protection Areas along water and wetlands need city approval to remove.

The tallest loblolly on a coastal lot takes the strikes; a spiral strip of missing bark is the sign, and decline can follow over the next season.

Sustained wind on saturated sandy soil topples pines and oaks across the city.

Suburban lots with tall pines close to houses, many backing onto canals, lakes or wetlands; soft, wet ground can limit heavy equipment after rain.