Tree Removal Permits: Boston vs Revere
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Boston, MA and Revere, MA?
Revere has fewer restrictions than Boston.
Boston, MA
Suffolk County
Boston regulates tree removal through the Parks and Recreation Department and Zoning Code Article 38. Public shade trees and street trees cannot be removed without a public hearing and Parks Commissioner approval. Private property tree removal in development projects requires BPDA review and replacement plantings.
View full Boston rules →Revere, MA
Suffolk County
Suffolk County tree rules are municipal. Boston's Public Shade Tree Law (MGL c. 87) protects all street trees — removal requires Tree Warden approval and public hearing. Private-property tree removal in Boston has limited regulation.
View full Revere rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Boston | Revere |
|---|---|---|
| Public Trees | Public hearing required for removal | - |
| State Law | MGL c.87 — Public Shade Tree Law | - |
| Zoning | Article 38 — Greenway Protection | - |
| Canopy Goal | 27% to 35% increase | - |
| Penalty | Up to 3x tree value | - |
| Street Trees | - | MGL c. 87 (Tree Warden + hearing) |
| Boston Private | - | No comprehensive ordinance |
| Wetlands Buffer | - | MGL c. 131 §40 review |
| Article 80 | - | Tree inventory for major projects |
| Historic District | - | BLC review required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Boston FAQ
Can I cut down a street tree in Boston?
No. Public shade trees are protected under MGL c.87. Removal requires a public hearing with the Tree Warden and approval from the Parks Commissioner. Unauthorized removal carries fines up to 3 times the tree's assessed value.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my private property in Boston?
For simple residential tree removal not involving development, there is no general city permit required. However, if the tree is part of a development project subject to BPDA review, or in an Article 38 overlay zone, approval and replacement plantings may be required.
Revere FAQ
Can I cut down a tree in my Boston backyard?
Generally yes if it's entirely on your property, not a public shade tree, not in a historic district, not within 100 ft of wetlands, and not subject to Article 80 project review. Large established trees near streets are likely public shade trees protected under MGL c. 87.
How do I remove a street tree blocking my driveway in Boston?
You cannot — public shade trees require Tree Warden approval under MGL c. 87 §3. File a request with Boston Parks; a public hearing will be scheduled with 7 days' notice. Removal is generally denied unless the tree is hazardous or diseased.
Compare other topics
See how Boston and Revere compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool