Brick's Tree Protection: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles tree protection a little differently. In Brick, New Jersey, there are 2 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.

Heritage & Protected Trees

Brick Township requires a Shade Tree Commission or Engineering Department permit before removing, cutting, or damaging any protected tree, generally over 3 inches in trunk diameter, anywhere in the township, with exceptions for small single-family lots.

Key details: Permit required: Yes. Shade Tree Commission or Engineering. Protected size: 3 in. trunk (deciduous), 4 in. (conifer). Review deadline: 35 days, deemed approved after. Performance guaranty: 100% of tree replacement cost. Small-lot exemption: 1 acre or less, existing single-family home.

Violating the permit requirement is a code violation under the Township's general penalty (§ 1-15); each tree cut, killed, or damaged, and each day the violation continues, counts as a separate offense, enforced by Code Enforcement.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Brick actively enforces its heritage & protected trees requirements.

Parkway Planting

Brick Township requires street trees installed with a subdivision or site plan to be chosen from an approved species list and spaced 30 to 50 feet on center depending on tree size.

Key details: Small tree spacing: 30 feet on center. Average tree spacing: 40 feet on center. Large tree spacing: 50 feet on center. Planting season: Mar 15-Jun 30 or Sep 1-Nov 30. Review authority: Planning Board (site plan/subdivision).

Skipping the approved species list or spacing without Planning Board sign-off blocks site-plan approval; unauthorized removal of trees outside approved clearing limits requires replacing them plus other Part 5 penalties under § 245-414.

The Bottom Line

Brick's tree protection 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 Brick is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Brick's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.