The Parkside Canopy Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 amends the Urban Forest Preservation Amendment Act of 2002 to exempt specific Heritage Trees located in Lots 865, 866, 867, 868, and 869 in Square 5056 from the removal requirements typically imposed on such trees. The new legal language added specifies that these exemptions apply to Heritage Trees for which the Zoning Commission has approved a planned unit development prior to July 1, 2016. However, it mandates that a fee, calculated at the rate applicable for special trees, must be paid for each Heritage Tree removed from these designated lots.

This emergency act is designed to facilitate the Parkside mixed-use economic development project while ensuring that the removal of Heritage Trees is subject to a financial penalty. The act will take effect upon approval by the Mayor and will remain in effect for a maximum of 90 days, in accordance with the emergency provisions of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act.