The Urban Tree Canopy Cover Standard has been developed in collaboration with the Forestry Commission. It sets targets for increasing urban tree canopy cover provision.

How does it work?

The Urban Tree Canopy Cover provides a consistent approach to measuring, benchmarking and setting urban tree canopy cover targets for local authorities (and others). It provides data on the number, location, species and condition of trees in a defined area to give a clear understanding of existing tree canopy cover, on which to set a locally defined, ambitious but achievable target for increasing provision over a set period of time.

What is the standard?

Area-wide standard: Urban tree canopy cover is increased by an agreed percentage based on a locally defined baseline and taking into account local needs, opportunities and constraints.

Major development standard: Major residential and commercial development is designed to meet area-wide targets. New and existing trees are incorporated into new developments and new streets are tree lined.