Garfield vs Hackensack
How do tree replacement requirements rules compare between Garfield, NJ and Hackensack, NJ?
Garfield and Hackensack have similar restriction levels.
Garfield, NJ
Bergen County
Garfield requires replacement plantings after qualifying tree removals, using a city-approved species list and excluding invasive species.
View full Garfield rules →Hackensack, NJ
Bergen County
Bergen County does not impose a countywide tree replacement formula on private property. Replacement requirements are set by each municipality and by New Jersey's statewide stormwater rules (N.J.A.C. 7:8) for major development projects, which require tree planting based on disturbed canopy.
View full Hackensack rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Garfield | Hackensack |
|---|---|---|
| Non-homeowner trigger | 1+ tree, 6 inch DBH | - |
| Homeowner trigger | More than 3 trees per acre | - |
| Lookback period | Five years | - |
| Banned species | NJ Strike Team Do Not Plant List | - |
| County formula | - | None countywide |
| State trigger | - | Major development under 7:8 |
| Common municipal rule | - | 1 tree per inch DBH |
| Cash-in-lieu option | - | Allowed by many towns |
| Park replantings | - | Done by Land Management |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Garfield FAQ
Can I pay a fee instead of replanting?
Garfield's ordinance allows planting additional trees in lieu of paying the standard $250 fine for unlawful removal, but routine replacements after permitted removal must be planted on site.
Where do I find Garfield's approved replacement species list?
The Building Department distributes the approved species list at the time the tree removal permit is issued, along with Right Tree Right Place placement guidelines.
Hackensack FAQ
Does Bergen County require me to replant after taking down a tree?
Not directly. Your municipality's tree ordinance sets replacement requirements. State rules under N.J.A.C. 7:8 add tree replacement obligations for major development across all Bergen County towns.
Can I pay a fee instead of planting replacement trees?
In many Bergen County municipalities, yes. Towns like Glen Rock and Harrington Park accept cash-in-lieu contributions to a municipal tree fund when on-site replanting is impractical.
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