Tree removal permit rules in Monroe County, NY — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Tree removal permits in Monroe County are handled by individual municipalities. No countywide tree removal permit exists. Trees on county or state road rights-of-way require permits. Some towns have tree preservation ordinances for significant trees.
Monroe County does not require a tree removal permit for private property at the county level. Tree removal regulations are set by each town and village — some Monroe County municipalities have tree preservation ordinances that require review or permits before removing trees over a certain diameter or on sites undergoing development. Trees within Monroe County road rights-of-way cannot be removed without Monroe County Highway Department authorization. Street trees in municipalities are managed by local government and removal requires municipal approval. NY DEC regulates invasive species. Homeowners should check their town code before removing any significant or protected trees. Certified arborists are recommended for large tree removals.
Unauthorized removal: $500 to $10,000 per tree. Replacement planting required. Street tree damage: city restitution costs.
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See how Monroe County's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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