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Cambridge, 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 Cambridge, 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

Permit trigger: Any tree 6+ inches DBH
Permit authority: City Arborist
Replacement Tree protection: 10 years after planting
Large-project Tree Study lead time: 21 days before application
Large-project bond minimum: $5,000
Max daily fine: $300 per day

Summary

Cutting down a 'Significant Tree,' anything six inches or more in trunk diameter on a Cambridge lot, needs a permit from the City Arborist first. The Arborist logs the tree's size, the reason for removal, photos, the contractor and the property owner before work can start.

For any Significant Tree removal, a permit will be required from the City Arborist. The City Arborist shall keep a record of the type and size of tree removed, the reason for the removal, photographs of the tree documenting the reason for removal, the date, the contractor(s), and the name and address of the property owner.

View official code

Full Breakdown

030 as any tree six inches or more in diameter at breast height standing on a Lot. 050(a)). 050(b)). 050(c)). 060). 150.

Violations & Fines

Removing a Significant Tree without first getting a City Arborist permit, or removing a Replacement Tree within its ten-year protected period without a new permit, violates Chapter 8.66. The Arborist can issue a written notice of violation and a stop-work order; continuing work after a stop-work order draws a fine of up to $300 per day under § 8.66.120, in addition to any Mitigation Payment owed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to cut down a tree on my own property in Cambridge?

Yes, if the tree is a Significant Tree, meaning six inches or more in diameter at breast height. Cambridge Municipal Code § 8.66.050 requires a City Arborist permit before removal, regardless of whether the tree is on private or City-owned land.

Is there a fee to plant a Replacement Tree instead of paying a mitigation fee?

Planting enough Replacement Trees avoids the Mitigation Payment; if you plant fewer than required, § 8.66.080 charges the difference on a DBH basis using the City's current tree-planting contract rate, with a 1.5x rate for Exceptional Trees thirty inches DBH or larger.

Are dead or dangerous trees exempt from the mitigation fee?

Yes. Section 8.66.050(b) waives the Mitigation Payment for dead or dangerous trees, emergency removals, City park projects, certain utility work, trees threatening an adjacent structure, and overly dense lots, though the Arborist permit to remove the tree is still required.

What extra steps apply to a large construction project?

Projects needing a zoning special permit, or any building of 25,000 square feet or more, must submit a Tree Study to the City Arborist at least 21 days before the permit application and post a bond of at least $5,000 with the City Clerk under § 8.66.060.

Sources & Official References

[1]Cambridge Municipal Code (General Code) § 8.66.050

Other rules in Cambridge

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All Cambridge rules

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Tree Removal & Heritage Trees in Nearby Cities

How other cities in this county handle tree removal & heritage trees.

Somerville, MA

Significant Restrictions

Lowell, MA

Heavy Restrictions