Quincy, MA Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Quincy, 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
- Lead time required
- 21 days before application
- Applies to
- Variance, special permit, by-right builds
- Reviewed by
- City Arborist
- Governing chapter
- Chapter 311, adopted 2008
Summary
Before removing a significant tree (over 8 inches DBH) on a development project, Quincy property owners must submit a tree study to the City Arborist at least 21 days ahead, per Chapter 311.
In any project (with significant tree displacement) which requires a variance or special permit under the Zoning Ordinance, the application for the variance or special permit shall include a tree study, which shall first have been submitted to the City Arborist not less than 21 days prior to the submission of the application for a variance or special permit.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4608810; v7 updated 2025-10-06; through 10-06-2025).
Full Breakdown
Quincy's Chapter 311 tree-removal permit process runs through the City Arborist rather than a separate tree board. Projects needing a zoning variance or special permit must submit a tree study to the Arborist at least 21 days before filing, and the Arborist's certification and recommendations go to the Zoning Board, Planning Board, or City Council. By-right projects on Table A's list, demolition/rebuild, a 25%-or-greater addition, or new construction, must submit the same tree study with their building-permit application, also cleared through the Arborist 21 days ahead. Applicants without an active City Arborist may substitute a plan certified by an independent certified arborist.
Violations & Fines
Building without a certified tree study, or violating its conditions, triggers a stop-work order and fines up to $300 per day under § 311-10; occupancy permits are withheld until compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who reviews a tree removal permit in Quincy?
How far ahead must I submit a Quincy tree study?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Quincy
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Tree Removal & Heritage Trees in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Norfolk County handle tree removal & heritage trees.