How Springfield Handles Tree Protection: A Practical Guide
Springfield maintains 135 local ordinances across all categories, and 3 of those deal specifically with tree protection. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Springfield falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
Protected Tree Species
Springfield requires a City Forester permit before anyone, even the property owner, cuts, prunes, or removes a significant tree, defined as 75 years old or older, or three feet or more in trunk diameter, on public or private land.
Key details: Protected threshold: 75+ years old or 3-ft DBH. Permit issuer: City Forester. Applies on: public and private land alike. Max fine: $500 or triple tree value. Hardship appeal: Park Commission.
Cutting or removing a significant tree without a permit draws a fine up to $500 per violation, or up to triple the tree's appraised value under MGL c. 242, § 7, set by the Park Commission.
This is one of the stricter rules in Springfield's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
Heritage & Protected Trees
Springfield, Massachusetts bans cutting or removing any tree 75 years or older, or three feet or more in diameter, without a City Forester permit, even on private land.
Key details: Age threshold: 75 years or older. Size threshold: 3-foot diameter (DBH). Applies to: Public and private property. Permit standard: Endangers persons/property, diseased, or damaged. Appeal body: Park Commission (hardship).
Cutting, trimming, or removing a significant tree without a permit is fined up to $500 per violation, or up to triple the tree's value under MGL c. 242, § 7, under § 368-8.
This is one of the stricter rules in Springfield's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
Parkway Planting
Planting a tree in the Springfield, Massachusetts tree belt or on other city-owned land requires a free City Forester permit before work begins.
Key details: Planting permit fee: None. Issuing authority: City Forester. Applies to: Tree belt / city-owned land. Chapter last amended: March 18, 2024.
Chapter 368 does not set a separate penalty for unpermitted planting; general violations of the chapter's permit requirements are fined up to $500 per violation under § 368-8.
The Bottom Line
Springfield is tougher than many cities when it comes to tree protection. Out of the 3 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Springfield, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.
This guide is based on Springfield's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.