How Galloway Township Handles Landscaping Rules: A Practical Guide
Galloway Township maintains 39 local ordinances across all categories, and 3 of those deal specifically with landscaping rules. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Galloway Township falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
Tree Removal & Heritage Trees
Galloway Township requires a tree removal and protection permit for tree removal tied to subdivisions and site plans, applied for through the Zoning Officer, plus a general permit for cutting any tree except § 233-52E exemptions. Pinelands Area standards also apply.
Key details: Permit trigger: Subdivision / site plan removal. Apply to: Zoning Officer. Code section: § 233-52. Protected trees: Plan/street-required trees. Overlay: Pinelands Art. X (233-67–233-84).
Removing protected or plan-required trees, or clearing tied to a development without the permit, is a zoning/land-management violation enforced by the Zoning Officer, with municipal-court penalties and possible replanting requirements.
Weed Ordinances
On residential premises (other than multifamily), Galloway Township prohibits weeds or plant growth exceeding 10 inches. On commercial, industrial or multifamily property, grass or weeds over 6 inches in a landscaped or lawn area is presumed a violation.
Key details: Residential limit: 10 inches. Commercial/multifamily limit: 6 inches (presumed violation). Governing chapter: Ch. 267 § 267-14. Enforced by: Code Enforcement Office. Max fine: $2,000 per offense.
Chapter 267 violations carry a fine up to $2,000, up to 90 days imprisonment and/or up to 90 days community service; each day the violation continues is a separate offense.
Tree Trimming
Galloway Township requires owners/tenants to cut brush, hedges and other plant life within 10 feet of a roadway (and 25 feet of an intersection) to no more than 2 1/2 feet where the Road Foreman finds it necessary for public safety.
Key details: Trim height: 2 1/2 feet max. Near roadway: Within 10 feet. Near intersection: Within 25 feet. Compliance window: 10 days after notice. Chapter: 119 Brush & Hedges.
Fine of not less than $500 and not more than $2,000, imprisonment up to 90 days, or community service up to 90 days; the Township may also cut the growth and assess costs.
The Bottom Line
Galloway Township's landscaping rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Galloway Township is broadly strict or permissive.
All of the above reflects Galloway Township's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.