Bergenfield vs Paramus
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Bergenfield, NJ and Paramus, NJ?
Bergenfield has fewer restrictions than Paramus.
Bergenfield, NJ
Bergen County
Bergenfield Chapter 291 forbids removing or injuring any living tree on public property without a written Shade Tree Committee permit, and lets the Committee order removal of dangerous trees.
View full Bergenfield rules →Paramus, NJ
Bergen County
Paramus requires Shade Tree and Parks Commission approval before removing any street tree or any tree on undeveloped land or in a required planted buffer, and homeowners must pay replacement value for approved removals of public trees.
View full Paramus rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bergenfield | Paramus |
|---|---|---|
| Permit required | Public trees | - |
| Issued by | Shade Tree Committee | - |
| Code chapter | Chapter 291 | Chapter 453 |
| Dangerous trees | Owner pays removal | - |
| Private trees | Generally unregulated | - |
| Permit issuer | - | Shade Tree and Parks Commission |
| Healthy tree policy | - | Removal generally prohibited |
| Replacement formula | - | Up to $27 per square inch |
| Fines | - | $200 to $1,500 per offense |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bergenfield FAQ
Do I need a Bergenfield permit to remove a tree on my own lot?
Chapter 291 governs trees on public property. Trees fully within private property are not subject to this permit, though zoning, buffer, or stormwater rules may apply elsewhere in the code.
How do I get a Borough shade tree removed?
Send a written request to the Shade Tree Committee at 198 North Washington Avenue, Bergenfield NJ 07621, or email dpw@bergenfieldnj.gov.
Paramus FAQ
Can I remove a street tree in front of my property?
Only with Shade Tree and Parks Commission approval. The Commission rarely allows removal of healthy live trees and will require payment of value and replanting fees before issuing a permit.
What if my private yard tree is dying?
Removal of trees on developed private property generally does not require a Commission permit, though a building or zoning permit may apply if the work involves construction or buffer areas.
What does a replacement assessment cost?
The Commission appraises tree value using a per-square-inch formula not to exceed $27 per square inch of trunk area, and may require this amount as a condition of any approved removal.
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