The Tree Preservation Enhancement Amendment Act of 2026 amends the Urban Forest Preservation Act of 2002 by modifying the definition of a Special Tree, specifically changing the minimum diameter from "between 44 inches" to "between 40 inches." Additionally, the bill mandates that the Mayor increase the fines and fees associated with the removal of Special Trees or Heritage Trees every three years, starting July 1, 2029, to account for inflation based on the Consumer Price Index. The Mayor is also granted the authority to increase these fees and fines beyond the inflation adjustments.

Furthermore, the bill revises the permissible uses of the Tree Fund, which is established as a special fund administered by the District Department of Transportation. The fund will now support tree planting on both public and private land, provide income-based subsidies for residents dealing with hazardous trees, and cover costs associated with the act's implementation. Notably, any unspent funds in the Tree Fund at the end of a fiscal year will not revert to the General Fund, ensuring continuous availability for tree preservation efforts.