Anne Arundel County Council considers strengthening new forest law after tree cutting near Annapolis

A county councilwoman said a “loophole” in Anne Arundel County’s forest conservation law could soon be closed if her bill requiring approval for clearing certain vegetation in sensitive areas is successful. It would ensure that the 2019 forest conservation bill and associated penalties would still affect developers who cleared forests in violation, even if that clearing took place before they submitted a development application. Bill 20-21 from Councilwoman Lisa Brannigan Rodvien, D-Annapolis, would amend the definition of a “standard grading plan,” require mitigation when clearing is approved, and establish fines and penalties for violation.