Lowell, MA Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Lowell, 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
- Code Section
- MGL c. 87, sec. 3; Lowell Code sec. 227-3(L)
- Public shade tree removal
- Tree warden permit plus public hearing
- Notice
- Posted and published at least 7 days before hearing
- Private vegetation
- Conservation Commission permit may be required
- Penalty
- Up to $500 for injuring a public tree (sec. 12)
Summary
Removing a public shade tree in Lowell requires action by the tree warden and, under MGL c. 87, sec. 3, a posted and published public hearing with at least seven days' notice; no abutting owner may remove such a tree on their own. Removing vegetation on private property may also require a Conservation Commission permit under Lowell Code section 227-3(L).
Public shade trees shall not be cut down or removed by the tree warden or his deputy or other person without a public hearing and said tree warden or his deputy shall cause a notice of the time and place of such hearing thereof, which shall identify the size, type and location of the shade tree or trees to be cut down or removed, to be posted in two or more public places in the town and upon the tree at least seven days before such hearing and published in a newspaper of general circulation in the city or town once in each of two successive weeks.
Full Breakdown
Tree removal in Massachusetts is governed by MGL Chapter 87 (Shade Trees), which preempts local removal of public shade trees. Under MGL c. 87, sec. 1, trees within or on the borders of a public way are presumed to be public shade trees, and under sec. 3 they shall not be cut down or removed without a written permit from the tree warden and a public hearing, with notice posted in two or more public places and on the tree at least seven days before the hearing and published in a newspaper.
Section 4 requires the approval of the mayor (in a city) for certain removals, and section 6 sets penalties for violations. For trees and vegetation on private property, the City of Lowell Code section 227-3(L) expressly preserves the requirement that an owner obtain, from the Conservation Commission or any other appropriate board or agency, all necessary permits and approvals for the removal of regulated vegetation, for example where wetlands or buffer-zone resource areas are involved under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (MGL c. 131, sec. 40).
Violations & Fines
Cutting down or removing a public shade tree without a tree warden's permit and hearing violates MGL c. 87, sec. 3 and is punishable under MGL c. 87, sec. 6; willful injury or destruction of a public tree carries a fine of up to $500 under MGL c. 87, sec. 12. Removing protected vegetation without a required Conservation Commission permit can trigger enforcement orders and fines under the Wetlands Protection Act.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the city remove a public tree without telling anyone?
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in my yard?
What is the penalty for illegally cutting a public tree?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lowell
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Tree Removal & Heritage Trees in Nearby Cities
How other cities in this county handle tree removal & heritage trees.