Hackensack vs Ridgewood
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Hackensack, NJ and Ridgewood, NJ?
Hackensack and Ridgewood have similar restriction levels.
Hackensack, NJ
Bergen County
Hackensack requires a tree removal permit from the Building Department before removing trees with DBH of six inches or more on private property, or any street tree with DBH of 2.5 inches or more.
View full Hackensack rules →Ridgewood, NJ
Bergen County
Ridgewood requires a permit from the Division of Engineering to remove any qualified tree of eight inches diameter at breast height or greater on private property under Chapter 260.
View full Ridgewood rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Hackensack | Ridgewood |
|---|---|---|
| Private tree threshold | 6 inches DBH or more | - |
| Street tree threshold | 2.5 inches DBH or more | - |
| Filing fee | $20 per application | - |
| Replacement fee | $350 per tree | - |
| Issuing office | Building Department | - |
| Code Chapter | - | Chapter 260 |
| DBH Threshold | - | 8 inches or greater |
| Permit Office | - | Division of Engineering |
| Shade Tree Phone | - | 201-670-5565 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Hackensack FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a small tree in my yard?
If the tree's DBH is under six inches and it is not a street tree, no permit is typically required, though the exemption rules in Section 162-9 still apply.
How much does a tree removal permit cost in Hackensack?
The application fee is $20, plus a $350 replacement fee per tree removed, paid to the Building Department at the time of filing.
Who handles street tree removal applications?
Street tree removals require permission from the City Manager and are coordinated with the Tree Division of the Department of Public Works.
Ridgewood FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a small tree in my Ridgewood yard?
A permit is only required for qualified trees of eight inches diameter at breast height or greater. Smaller trees and certain invasive species are not regulated under Chapter 260's removal permit requirement.
Can I remove a dead or hazardous tree without a permit?
Trees that are dead, dying, diseased, damaged, or pose a danger to structures or people may be removed without a permit, but this must be confirmed by a Qualified Tree Expert or the Village Arborist.
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