Mahwah requires a permit at least 15 business days before removing regulated trees, with replacement at equal or greater diameter required.
Under Chapter 14 (Ordinance 2033), Mahwah regulates trees with a diameter greater than 12 inches or circumference greater than 38 inches measured at ground level. For multi-stem plants, aggregate stem measurements determine regulated status. Permit applications must be submitted to the Department of Planning and Zoning at least 15 business days before any proposed removal. Hazard tree removals may require certification from a Licensed Tree Expert (LTE). Removed trees must be replaced in kind with a tree of equal or greater diameter at breast height (DBH), and the Township maintains an approved shade-tree list grouped by mature size.
Removing regulated trees without a permit subjects owners to fines, mandatory replacement, and potential restoration orders. Failure to plant required replacement trees can trigger additional enforcement and penalties.
See how other cities in Bergen County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
See how Mahwah's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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