Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Brockton vs North Plymouth
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Brockton, MA and North Plymouth, MA?
Brockton has fewer restrictions than North Plymouth.
Brockton, MA
Plymouth County
Brockton may require permits for tree removal in certain circumstances. Trees in the public right-of-way are city property and cannot be removed without authorization.
View full Brockton rules →North Plymouth, MA
Plymouth County
MGL Chapter 87 mandates a public hearing and tree warden approval before removing any public shade tree, with specific procedures protecting larger trees and creating statewide minimum standards.
View full North Plymouth rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Brockton | North Plymouth |
|---|---|---|
| Private Trees | Check zoning requirements | - |
| Public Trees | Protected under MGL Ch. 87 | - |
| Tree Warden | Must approve public tree removal | - |
| Replacement | May be required on development sites | - |
| Statute | - | MGL Chapter 87 Section 3 |
| Hearing Notice | - | 7 days minimum |
| Tree Size Threshold | - | 1.5 inches diameter |
| Approval | - | Tree warden plus selectboard |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Brockton FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Brockton?
Private tree removal may be subject to zoning rules. Public shade trees are protected under MGL Chapter 87 and require Tree Warden approval.
Can I remove a street tree?
No. Street trees are city property. Contact the Department of Public Works for tree issues in the public right-of-way.
North Plymouth FAQ
Can a Massachusetts city skip the public hearing for tree removal?
No. The Chapter 87 hearing requirement is a statewide minimum that municipalities cannot waive. Skipping the hearing exposes the city to liability and invalidates the removal authorization.
What if a public shade tree is dead or hazardous?
The tree warden may declare the tree a public hazard and remove it without the full hearing process under Chapter 87, Section 5, but documentation of the hazard determination is required.
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