Tree Replacement Requirements: Boston vs Revere
How do tree replacement requirements rules compare between Boston, MA and Revere, MA?
Boston and Revere have similar restriction levels.
Boston, MA
Suffolk County
Boston requires tree replacement for public shade trees removed and for development projects that impact existing trees. The Parks Department manages the city's tree planting program and coordinates replacement plantings. Developers must provide replacement trees at ratios specified during BPDA review.
View full Boston rules →Revere, MA
Suffolk County
Suffolk County tree replacement requirements apply to public shade trees under MGL c. 87 and to major development under Boston Article 80. Private-property replacement is limited but encouraged through Boston's Urban Forest Plan.
View full Revere rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Boston | Revere |
|---|---|---|
| Public Tree Ratio | 1:1 minimum replacement | - |
| Development Ratio | 2:1 caliper inches typical | - |
| Annual Planting | ~1,000 new trees per year | - |
| Canopy Goal | Increase from 27% to 35% | 35% by 2035 (Urban Forest Plan) |
| Free Trees | Residents can request street trees | - |
| Public Shade Trees | - | Replacement per Tree Warden (c. 87) |
| Article 80 | - | Tree plan for major projects |
| Ratio | - | 1:1 street, 2:1-3:1 significant |
| Min Caliper | - | 2.5 inch B&B (Boston) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Boston FAQ
If a tree is removed in Boston, does it need to be replaced?
Public shade trees removed with approval must be replaced at a minimum 1:1 ratio. Development projects typically require 2:1 caliper inch replacement. Developers may plant on-site, on city property, or contribute to the tree planting fund.
Can I get a free tree planted on my Boston street?
Yes. The Parks Department plants approximately 1,000 new street trees annually. Residents can request a free street tree planting through the Parks Department or by contacting 311.
Revere FAQ
Do I have to replant after cutting a tree on my Boston property?
For private property trees on small projects, generally no mandatory replacement. But Article 80 major projects require tree inventory and mitigation. Public shade trees removed for any reason trigger Tree Warden replacement orders under MGL c. 87 §6.
Where does Boston's tree replacement fee-in-lieu go?
Into the Boston Parks tree planting fund, which plants trees in environmental-justice neighborhoods per the Urban Forest Plan. Priority areas are Dorchester, Roxbury, Mattapan, and East Boston where canopy is historically lowest.
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