Garfield vs Mahwah
How do heritage & protected trees rules compare between Garfield, NJ and Mahwah, NJ?
Garfield and Mahwah have similar restriction levels.
Garfield, NJ
Bergen County
Garfield's tree code designates trees of significance and removes the standard fine cap when one is unlawfully removed.
View full Garfield rules →Mahwah, NJ
Bergen County
Mahwah Chapter 14 protects mature trees by regulating any specimen 12 inches or greater in diameter and requiring township review before any removal, cutting, or substantial injury occurs.
View full Mahwah rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Garfield | Mahwah |
|---|---|---|
| Standard removal fine | $250 per tree | - |
| Significant tree fine | No statutory cap | - |
| Replacement window | Five-year lookback | - |
| Authority | Garfield Building Department | - |
| Protected threshold | - | 12-inch diameter or 38-inch circumference |
| Measurement standard | - | DBH at 4.5 feet |
| Preferred replacements | - | Oak, maple, hickory hardwoods |
| Fee alternative | - | Mahwah Tree Bank escrow |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Garfield FAQ
What makes a tree a tree of significance in Garfield?
The ordinance reserves the designation for higher-value categories of trees, defined by species, size, and ecological value, qualifying them for stricter replacement and penalty rules.
Can the city really exceed $250 in fines?
Yes. Garfield's ordinance specifically removes the fine cap for unlawful removal of a tree of significance, allowing penalties scaled to the value of the lost tree.
Mahwah FAQ
Does Mahwah have a designated heritage tree program?
Mahwah does not maintain a separate heritage list, but Chapter 14 protects all trees of 12-inch diameter or larger, effectively giving mature specimens regulatory heritage status.
How is tree size measured under Mahwah's ordinance?
Diameter at breast height is measured 4.5 feet above the uphill ground side; multi-stem trees are measured at the highest point before the trunk divides.
Are native species required when replacing a protected tree?
Yes. Replacement trees must reflect the mature northern New Jersey forest, including species like oak, maple, hickory, or other hardwoods.
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