Why Hackensack Has Some of the Strictest Tree Protection in the State

If you live in Hackensack or are thinking about moving there, tree protection are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Hackensack has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of tree protection, and some of them might surprise you.

Tree Removal Permits

Hackensack requires a tree removal permit from the Building Department before removing trees with DBH of six inches or more on private property, or any street tree with DBH of 2.5 inches or more.

Key details: Private tree threshold: 6 inches DBH or more. Street tree threshold: 2.5 inches DBH or more. Filing fee: $20 per application. Replacement fee: $350 per tree. Issuing office: Building Department.

Violators face a minimum fine of $100 per tree, with the Code authorizing fines up to $1,500 per illegally removed tree plus replacement costs.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Hackensack actively enforces its tree removal permits requirements.

Heritage & Protected Trees

Hackensack designates all public shade trees as protected and prohibits cutting, defacing, or attaching items to any shade tree without prior written permission from the City Manager under Chapter 162.

Key details: Authority: City Manager approval required. Advisory body: Shade Tree Advisory Committee. Protected scope: All public shade trees. Maximum fine: $1,500 per tree. Replacement guidance: Appendix A native species.

Damaging or removing a protected shade tree without authorization carries fines up to $1,500 per tree, plus replacement costs and potential restoration orders.

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

The Bottom Line

Hackensack is tougher than many cities when it comes to tree protection. Out of the 2 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Hackensack, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

These rules come from Hackensack's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.