Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Quincy vs Wellesley
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Quincy, MA and Wellesley, MA?
Quincy and Wellesley have similar restriction levels.
Quincy, MA
Norfolk County
Quincy does not have a widely published private-property tree removal permit requirement beyond cases involving wetlands, site plans, or heritage-designated trees. Removal near wetlands requires Conservation Commission review under MGL c. 131 §40.
View full Quincy rules →Wellesley, MA
Norfolk County
Tree removal in Norfolk County is governed by state law (MGL c. 87 for public trees) and municipal bylaws. Public shade trees require a Tree Warden permit. Many Norfolk County towns also require permits to remove large private trees.
View full Wellesley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Quincy | Wellesley |
|---|---|---|
| Permit for Typical Removal? | No general permit required | - |
| Near Wetlands | Notice of Intent required — Conservation Commission | - |
| State Law | MGL c. 131 §40 | - |
| Contact | Quincy Conservation Commission | - |
| Public Trees | - | Tree Warden permit + public hearing (MGL c. 87) |
| Private Trees | - | Check town preservation bylaw (diameter trigger varies) |
| Fine (Public Tree) | - | Up to $500 per tree (MGL c. 87 §3) |
| County Rule? | - | None — state law and municipal bylaws |
| Replacement | - | Some towns require replacement planting |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Quincy FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Quincy?
Quincy does not have a widely published private-property tree removal permit requirement beyond cases involving wetlands, site plans, or heritage-designated trees. Removal near wetlands requires Conservation Commission review under MGL c. 131 §40.
What are the tree removal rules in Quincy?
Permit for Typical Removal?: No general permit required. Near Wetlands: Notice of Intent required — Conservation Commission. State Law: MGL c. 131 §40. Contact: Quincy Conservation Commission.
Wellesley FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Norfolk County?
Tree removal in Norfolk County is governed by state law (MGL c. 87 for public trees) and municipal bylaws. Public shade trees require a Tree Warden permit. Many Norfolk County towns also require permits to remove large private trees.
What are the tree removal rules in Norfolk County?
Public Trees: Tree Warden permit + public hearing (MGL c. 87). Private Trees: Check town preservation bylaw (diameter trigger varies). Fine (Public Tree): Up to $500 per tree (MGL c. 87 §3). County Rule?: None — state law and municipal bylaws.
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