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Attleboro, MA Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Tree removal permit rules in Attleboro, MA, sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances, list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.

Key Facts

Public Trees
City ordinance regulates removal
Private Trees
No permit generally required
Wetlands
50-foot no-disturb buffer zone
State Law
MGL Ch. 87 public shade trees

Summary

Removal of public trees in Attleboro is regulated under the proposed/adopted tree protection ordinance. The ordinance governs planting, maintenance, and removal of public trees. Private tree removal generally does not require a city permit unless in wetlands buffer or protected area.

No person shall remove, fill, dredge or alter any bank, riverfront area, fresh water wetland, coastal wetland, beach, dune, flat, marsh, meadow or swamp bordering on the ocean or on any estuary, creek, river, stream, pond, or lake, or any land under said waters or any land subject to tidal action, coastal storm flowage, or flooding, other than in the course of maintaining, repairing or replacing, but not substantially changing or enlarging, an existing and lawfully located structure or facility used in the service of the public and used to provide electric, gas, sewer, water, telephone, telegraph and other telecommunication services, without filing written notice of his intention to so remove, fill, dredge or alter, including such plans as may be necessary to describe s

Source: Attleboro Revised Ordinances (PDF)View official code

Full Breakdown

Applications may require an arborist report. Street trees in the right-of-way are managed exclusively by Attleboro public works or urban forestry. Dead, dying, or hazardous trees may qualify for expedited removal. Replacement planting is usually required. Massachusetts state law may preempt local tree ordinances in certain circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Attleboro?
Removal of public trees in Attleboro is regulated under the proposed/adopted tree protection ordinance. The ordinance governs planting, maintenance, and removal of public trees. Private tree removal generally does not require a city permit unless in wetlands buffer or protected area.
What are the tree removal rules in Attleboro?
Public Trees: City ordinance regulates removal. Private Trees: No permit generally required. Wetlands: 50-foot no-disturb buffer zone. State Law: MGL Ch. 87 public shade trees.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Attleboro

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Tree Removal & Heritage Trees in Nearby Cities

How other cities in Bristol County handle tree removal & heritage trees.

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Fall River, MA
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