Tree Removal Permits: Buffalo vs Clarence
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Buffalo, NY and Clarence, NY?
Clarence has fewer restrictions than Buffalo.
Buffalo, NY
Erie County
Removing trees from the public right-of-way in Buffalo requires approval from the city's Division of Forestry, and removal of significant trees on private property during development may require Green Code site plan review.
View full Buffalo rules →Clarence, NY
Erie County
Erie County issues no tree-removal permits for private property, and New York has no statewide private-tree permit. Any permit requirement is set by your specific town, village, or city. The county's role is stormwater and erosion protection when clearing disturbs one acre or more.
View full Clarence rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Buffalo | Clarence |
|---|---|---|
| Public Trees | City Division of Forestry approval required for any work | - |
| Private Trees | Generally owner's discretion unless in site plan review | - |
| Development | Tree preservation addressed in Green Code site plan review | - |
| City Program | Free tree planting programs available periodically | - |
| Replacement | Required for unauthorized public tree removal | - |
| County permit | - | Not issued |
| State permit | - | None for private trees |
| Permit source | - | Town/village/city |
| 1+ acre trigger | - | DEC SWPPP required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Buffalo FAQ
Can I remove a tree on my property in Buffalo?
Trees on private property can generally be removed by the property owner without a specific permit, unless the property is undergoing development requiring site plan review. However, trees in the public right-of-way (between the sidewalk and street) require city approval.
How do I request removal of a city street tree?
Contact the Division of Forestry through the city's 311 system. The city will evaluate whether the tree should be removed based on safety, disease, or other factors. Residents cannot remove city trees on their own.
Clarence FAQ
Does Erie County issue tree-removal permits?
No. Erie County issues no private-tree permits, and New York has none statewide. Any permit comes from your town, village, or city tree ordinance.
When does the county-linked stormwater rule apply?
When clearing disturbs one acre or more, the NY DEC construction stormwater permit GP-0-20-001, a SWPPP, and erosion controls are required.
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