Long Branch's Landscaping Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles landscaping rules a little differently. In Long Branch, New Jersey, there are 4 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Tree Trimming

All trees in Long Branch are the responsibility of the property owner, including street trees between the sidewalk and curb. Tree preservation plans are required during construction with protective barriers at least 5 feet from trunks. Buffer plantings must comply with zoning height requirements.

Key details: Responsibility: Property owner (incl. street trees). Construction Buffer: 5 ft from trunk. Front Buffer: 4 ft max height. Side/Rear Buffer: 6 ft min height.

Failure to maintain trees: code violation. Damage to protected trees during construction: fines and mandatory replacement.

Grass Height Limits

Long Branch enforces property maintenance standards requiring lawns and vegetation to be maintained. Weeds and grass must not become overgrown creating a nuisance. The city's property maintenance code (Chapter 262) and general nuisance provisions apply. Grass clippings are not collected by the city.

Key details: Standard: Must maintain lawn/vegetation. Brush Collection: Mar 15–Jun 1, Sep 15–Dec 31. Grass Clippings: Not collected by city. Code: Ch. 262 Property Maintenance.

Unmaintained property: code violation with fines up to $2,000. Each day of continuing violation is a separate offense.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Long Branch requires a Tree Removal Application for any street tree with 2.5-inch DBH or larger and any non-street tree with 6-inch DBH or larger. Trees cannot be removed until municipal approval. Replacement is required or a $100 fee per tree paid into a tree fund. Violations carry $100 to $1,000 fines per tree.

Key details: Street Tree: Permit for 2.5"+ DBH. Non-Street: Permit for 6"+ DBH. Replacement Fee: $100/tree to fund. Fine: $100–$1,000 per tree.

Unauthorized removal: $100–$1,000 fine per tree. Must replace with like or superior species at own expense. Enforced by LBPD.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Long Branch actively enforces its tree removal & heritage trees requirements.

Water Restrictions

Long Branch water use is governed by NJDEP regulations. During declared drought emergencies, mandatory water use restrictions apply statewide. New Jersey Water Supply Management Act gives NJDEP authority to impose restrictions on outdoor water use including lawn irrigation.

Key details: Authority: NJDEP statewide. Drought Orders: Mandatory when declared. State Law: N.J.S.A. 58:1A-1. Seasonal Risk: Summer demand pressure.

Violation of drought restrictions: fines under NJDEP emergency orders. Repeat violations: increased penalties.

The Bottom Line

Long Branch'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 Long Branch is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Long Branch can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.