Tree Trimming: Lexington vs Somerville
How do tree trimming rules compare between Lexington, MA and Somerville, MA?
Lexington and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Lexington, MA
Middlesex County
The MA Public Shade Tree Law (MGL Chapter 87) requires Tree Warden approval for pruning any public shade tree. All 54 Middlesex municipalities appoint a Tree Warden with legal authority.
View full Lexington rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Public shade trees are protected under MGL c.87 and the Somerville Tree Ordinance. Any pruning of a city tree requires a permit from the Somerville Tree Warden.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lexington | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Law | MGL Chapter 87 Public Shade Tree Law | - |
| Public Tree Authority | Tree Warden | - |
| Hearing Required | Over 1.5 in diameter | - |
| Private Trees | Owner can trim | - |
| Neighbor Overhang | Trim to property line only | - |
| State law | - | MGL Chapter 87 |
| City ordinance | - | Somerville Tree Ordinance Ch.12 |
| Permit authority | - | Tree Warden / DPW Urban Forestry |
| Unauthorized cut | - | Restitution at ISA appraised value |
| Request work | - | 311 or (617) 625-6600 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lexington FAQ
Can I trim a street tree in front of my house?
No. All public shade trees require written Tree Warden approval under MGL Chapter 87, even for light pruning.
Can I cut a neighbor tree branch hanging over my yard?
You may trim back to the property line only. Cutting into the neighbor side is trespass and the neighbor can sue for tree value.
Somerville FAQ
Can I trim the tree in front of my house?
Only with a permit from the Somerville Tree Warden. Street trees are public property under MGL c.87.
What if a branch is hitting my roof?
Submit a 311 request. The city will dispatch Urban Forestry to evaluate and prune if needed.
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