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🌿 Landscaping Rules/Tree Trimming

Mahwah vs Ridgewood

How do tree trimming rules compare between Mahwah, NJ and Ridgewood, NJ?

Mahwah has fewer restrictions than Ridgewood.

Mahwah, NJ

Bergen County

Some Restrictions

Mahwah reserves authority to plant, prune, and maintain trees within public rights-of-way, while permitting non-harmful pruning on private property without a permit.

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Ridgewood, NJ

Bergen County

Heavy Restrictions

Ridgewood prohibits residents from pruning or altering any tree within the public right-of-way in a manner that could reduce its viability or life span.

View full Ridgewood rules →

Key Facts Comparison

FactMahwahRidgewood
Code chapterChapter 14 Tree Preservation-
Right-of-way authorityTownship exclusive-
Private pruningAllowed if not harmful-
Utility trimmingLimited to line safety-
Code Chapter-Chapter 260
Adopted-April 9, 2025
ROW Pruning-Prohibited by residents
Contact-Parks/Shade Tree 201-670-5565

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Mahwah FAQ

Do I need a permit to prune my own trees in Mahwah?

No permit is required for cutting, pruning, or trimming on private property as long as the work does not harm the tree's health. Removal of regulated trees still requires a permit.

Can I trim a Township-owned street tree myself?

No. Mahwah reserves the right to plant, prune, and maintain trees in public rights-of-way. Contact the Township before any work on street trees or trees in public easements.

Ridgewood FAQ

Can I trim the street tree in front of my house?

No. Chapter 260 forbids residents from pruning trees in the public right-of-way. Contact the Parks and Shade Tree Division at 201-670-5565 to request maintenance from the Village.

Do I need approval to prune trees on my own yard?

Routine pruning of trees on private property is generally allowed, but full removal of any tree eight inches or more in diameter requires a permit under Chapter 260.

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