How Toms River Handles Landscaping Rules: A Practical Guide

Toms River maintains 38 local ordinances across all categories, and 4 of those deal specifically with landscaping rules. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Toms River falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Grass Height Limits

Toms River requires grass and weeds to be maintained at 10 inches or less. Violations are enforced by Code Enforcement and can be reported at 732-341-1000, ext. 8440 or through the resident complaint portal.

Key details: Maximum Grass Height: 10 inches. Enforcement: Code Enforcement. Leaf Disposal: Cannot remain on property or street. Report Violations: 732-341-1000, ext. 8440.

Code enforcement violations carry penalties under N.J.S.A. 40:49-5. Report violations at 732-341-1000, ext. 8440 or via the online resident complaint portal.

Tree Trimming

Toms River, a Tree City USA for over 33 years, regulates tree management through Chapter 417 (Trees). The township has a Shade Tree Commission and employs a Township Forester. The ordinance preserves coniferous, deciduous, flowering trees and shrubs growing in a natural state.

Key details: Code Section: Chapter 417 (Trees). Tree City USA: 33+ consecutive years. Shade Tree Commission: Oversees public tree care. Contact: Trees & Landscape Dept..

Violations of tree ordinances are enforced by the Zoning and Code Enforcement offices. Penalties per N.J.S.A. 40:49-5.

Water Restrictions

Water use restrictions in Toms River are primarily governed at the state level by NJDEP. The township may impose additional restrictions during drought emergencies as declared by the Governor or NJDEP. New Jersey Water Supply Authority manages regional water supply.

Key details: Local Restrictions: None during normal conditions. Drought Authority: Governor / NJDEP. Water Provider: Toms River MUA. Drought Enforcement: Fines during emergencies.

During declared drought emergencies, violations of mandatory water restrictions are enforceable with fines. Normal conditions have no specific watering restrictions.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Toms River gives residents more flexibility on water restrictions.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Toms River requires a Tree Removal Permit for removing trees on residential property, even when exempt from the Woodlands Management Ordinance. Landmark trees (16-inch DBH or greater, or trees of unique value) receive special protection. Applications to remove 10+ trees may be referred to the Township Forester.

Key details: Permit Required: Yes, Tree Removal Permit. Landmark Trees: 16-inch DBH or unique value. 10+ Tree Removal: Referred to Township Forester. Photo Required: Yes, for each tree.

Removing trees without a permit or violating the Woodlands Management Ordinance results in penalties under N.J.S.A. 40:49-5. Landmark tree violations carry enhanced scrutiny.

The Bottom Line

Toms River'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 Toms River is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Toms River'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.