Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Lexington vs Somerville
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Lexington, MA and Somerville, MA?
Lexington and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Lexington, MA
Middlesex County
Removing public shade trees in Middlesex County requires Tree Warden approval and a public hearing under MGL c.87. Many towns also regulate private tree removal through local tree bylaws.
View full Lexington rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
The Somerville Tree Preservation Ordinance (2020) requires a permit to remove any significant tree on private property and mandates replacement or fee-in-lieu payments to the tree fund.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lexington | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Public Trees | Tree Warden + hearing | - |
| Newton Private | Permit over 8 in DBH | - |
| Cambridge Private | Permit over 6 in DBH | - |
| Illegal Removal Fine | Up to $300 per diameter inch | - |
| Wetlands Buffer | 100 ft = conservation review | - |
| Ordinance | - | 2020-9 Tree Preservation |
| Trigger | - | 6 inch DBH or greater |
| Mitigation | - | Replacement or fee-in-lieu |
| Public trees | - | MGL c.87 hearing required |
| Illegal removal fine | - | Up to 300 dollars per day |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lexington FAQ
Can I cut down a tree on my own property?
Check your town bylaw. Cambridge, Newton, Weston, Lincoln, and others require permits for private tree removal over certain sizes.
What happens if I cut a tree without a permit?
Fines can reach $300 per diameter inch plus appraised tree value, which for a mature oak may exceed $20,000.
Somerville FAQ
Can I remove a tree in my yard?
Only with a permit from the Tree Warden if the tree is 6 inches DBH or larger.
What if the tree is dead?
Submit certified arborist documentation with your permit application. Hazard trees are approved more easily but still permitted.
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