Bergenfield vs Ridgewood
How do tree replacement requirements rules compare between Bergenfield, NJ and Ridgewood, NJ?
Bergenfield has fewer restrictions than Ridgewood.
Bergenfield, NJ
Bergen County
Bergenfield Chapter 291 requires property owners and contractors to replace shade trees that fail to thrive within one year of completing construction or improvements.
View full Bergenfield rules →Ridgewood, NJ
Bergen County
Ridgewood requires every healthy qualified tree removed under permit to be replaced on site, or the property owner must pay $500 per missing replacement tree into the Village Tree Fund Escrow.
View full Ridgewood rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bergenfield | Ridgewood |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement Window | One year post-completion | - |
| Sidewalk Clearance | 14 feet 6 inches minimum | - |
| Notice Period | 10 days written notice | - |
| Code Chapter | Chapter 291, Trees | Chapter 260 |
| Replacement Fee | - | $500 per missing tree |
| Formula | - | $500 x (removed minus replanted) |
| Tree Fund | - | Escrow held by Village |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bergenfield FAQ
Who pays to replace a Bergenfield shade tree that dies after construction?
The property owner or contractor responsible for the project must replace any shade tree that fails to thrive within one year after Borough acceptance of the work.
What clearance is required over the sidewalk?
Owners must keep the lowest branches over a sidewalk at least 14 feet 6 inches above ground; the Borough can issue a 10-day notice to cut back or remove.
Ridgewood FAQ
How much is Ridgewood's fee in lieu of tree replacement?
The Tree Fund Escrow Fee is $500 multiplied by the number of qualified trees removed minus the number of replacement trees planted, payable when on-site replacement is not feasible.
Are all removed trees subject to replacement?
No. Trees removed because they are dead, dying, diseased, damaged, hazardous, on public lands, or encroaching on utilities are exempt from the replacement requirement under Chapter 260.
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