Tree Protection in Bergen County, NJ (2026)

3 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 10 cities in Bergen County, New Jersey.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Bergen County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply — see the city list below.

Tree Removal Permits

On private property in Bergen County, tree removal permits are issued by your municipality, not the county. Within the Bergen County Parks System, no person may cut, remove, or damage any tree without prior written permission from the Department of Parks.

Bergen County Tree Removal Permits in County Parks

Heavy Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Heritage & Protected Trees

Bergen County does not maintain a formal heritage tree registry, but historic and specimen trees on county park land are protected under the Parks System Rules. Many municipalities, including Bergenfield and Woodcliff Lake, designate landmark trees with stricter removal rules and replacement formulas.

Bergen County Heritage and Specimen Tree Protections

Heavy Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Tree Replacement Requirements

Bergen County does not impose a countywide tree replacement formula on private property. Replacement requirements are set by each municipality and by New Jersey's statewide stormwater rules (N.J.A.C. 7:8) for major development projects, which require tree planting based on disturbed canopy.