Tree Trimming: New Bedford vs Somerset
How do tree trimming rules compare between New Bedford, MA and Somerset, MA?
New Bedford and Somerset have similar restriction levels.
New Bedford, MA
Bristol County
New Bedford manages public trees through the Department of Public Infrastructure. Property owners are responsible for maintaining trees on their property to prevent hazards to public ways. Massachusetts law allows property owners to trim branches extending over their property line.
View full New Bedford rules →Somerset, MA
Bristol County
Tree management in Bristol County is handled at the municipal level. Each town has a Tree Warden responsible for public shade trees under MGL Ch. 87. Property owners may trim branches extending over their property line. Some towns like Attleboro have adopted specific tree protection ordinances.
View full Somerset rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | New Bedford | Somerset |
|---|---|---|
| Public Trees | Managed by Dept of Public Infrastructure | - |
| Private Trees | Owner responsible for hazard prevention | May trim to property line |
| Overhanging Branches | May trim to property line (MA law) | - |
| Contact | DPI: 508-979-1550 | - |
| State Law | - | MGL Ch. 87 — public shade trees |
| Tree Warden | - | Each town has a Tree Warden |
| Local Ordinances | - | Some towns have tree protection laws |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
New Bedford FAQ
Can I trim tree branches that hang over my property in New Bedford?
New Bedford manages public trees through the Department of Public Infrastructure. Property owners are responsible for maintaining trees on their property to prevent hazards to public ways. Massachusetts law allows property owners to trim branches extending over their property line.
Do I need a permit to trim trees in New Bedford?
Public Trees: Managed by Dept of Public Infrastructure. Private Trees: Owner responsible for hazard prevention. Overhanging Branches: May trim to property line (MA law). Contact: DPI: 508-979-1550.
Somerset FAQ
Can I trim tree branches that hang over my property in Bristol County?
Tree management in Bristol County is handled at the municipal level. Each town has a Tree Warden responsible for public shade trees under MGL Ch. 87. Property owners may trim branches extending over their property line. Some towns like Attleboro have adopted specific tree protection ordinances.
Do I need a permit to trim trees in Bristol County?
State Law: MGL Ch. 87 — public shade trees. Tree Warden: Each town has a Tree Warden. Private Trees: May trim to property line. Local Ordinances: Some towns have tree protection laws.
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