The number of heritage tree preservation ordinances is growing as cities face pressure from citizens outraged by the removal of community landmark trees. This thesis aims to provide interested individuals with a tool for developing heritage tree protections that fits their unique communities and their individual needs. To do so, it answers the questions of what are heritage trees, why are they important, and how can local laws be better crafted to preserve them. It looks at general tree ordinances, how they are constructed and their basic components, and critiques their ability to preserve heritage trees. It also studies three different tree preservation ordinances and answers questions about their differences and if they are successful in protecting heritage trees. Finally, it concludes with recommendations for ordinance provisions and areas for further research. The appendix includes an outline of a tree preservation ordinance to serve as a possible model.