Maryland’s Reforestation Law requires certain State-funded construction projects that clear forest to minimize forest loss and provide replacement forest when clearing reaches the statutory threshold.

The law applies to construction or improvements to highways, as well as off-site environmental mitigation related to highway construction, when the activity is undertaken by a unit of State or local government or another entity using State funding.

When the Law Applies

Before clearing forest, the constructing agency must make every reasonable effort to minimize the number of trees and other woody plants removed.

If a covered construction activity clears 1 acre or more of forest, the agency must provide an equivalent area for reforestation. The law generally prioritizes reforestation on or near the project site, then on other publicly owned land in the same county and watershed. Forest mitigation bank credits or payment into the State Reforestation Fund may be used when suitable land is not reasonably available.

Reforestation Requirements

Required reforestation is generally completed at a one-to-one ratio. The Maryland Forest Service carries out reforestation funded under the law and works with constructing agencies to identify suitable locations.

Constructing agencies must consult with the Department before clearing forest and before selecting a reforestation area.

The law is separate from the Forest Conservation Act, which applies to many public and private​ development activities and expressly excludes construction activity already subject to the Reforestation Law.

Project Review

Agencies planning a project that may be subject to the Maryland Reforestation Law should contact the Maryland Forest Service early in project development to determine applicability, document forest impacts, and coordinate required reforestation.

Contact Us​

Veronica Guerra
Program Administrator, Urban & Community Forestry
Maryland Forest Service
Maryland Department of Natural Resources
580 Taylor Avenue, E-1
Annapolis, Maryland 21401
(410) 260-8521
[email protected]