Bayonne, NJ Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)

Section 14-3 bars removing, destroying or causing the removal or destruction of any living tree covered by Chapter 14 without first getting a permit, and separately bars girdling a tree or applying salt, oil or other injurious chemicals within its drip line, or regrading more than six inches around a tree without a retaining wall at least three feet out. Section 14-4 requires the application to name the owner, tenant or agent, state whether the applicant is a public utility, and give the tree's location, species, diameter and reason for removal, filed with the Bureau of Building for a $20 fee, waived for a diseased or emergency tree.

Section 14-5 has the Tree Supervisor inspect the site and approve removal only where the tree sits in or within 10 feet of a planned building, driveway, street, easement or improvement, is diseased or infested enough to endanger other trees, or causes hardship or danger; a denied applicant may appeal in writing to the City Clerk within 10 days, with the Municipal Council deciding within 30 days. Section 14-6 then requires anyone who removes a permitted tree to pay a further $250 fee and replant a tree of at least two to 2.5 inches caliper on the same parcel, following state Department of Environmental Protection forestry practices.