Bristol County, MA Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Bristol County, 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
- Public Trees
- Tree Warden approval required (MGL Ch. 87)
- Private Trees
- No permit generally required
- Wetlands
- Conservation Commission review required
- Authority
- Municipal Tree Wardens
Summary
Tree removal regulations in Bristol County are handled at the municipal level. Public tree removal requires approval from the local Tree Warden under MGL Ch. 87. Private tree removal generally does not require a permit unless in wetlands or protected areas.
No person shall remove, fill, dredge or alter any bank, riverfront area, fresh water wetland, coastal wetland, beach, dune, flat, marsh, meadow or swamp bordering on the ocean or on any estuary, creek, river, stream, pond, or lake, or any land under said waters or any land subject to tidal action, coastal storm flowage, or flooding, other than in the course of maintaining, repairing or replacing, but not substantially changing or enlarging, an existing and lawfully located structure or facility used in the service of the public and used to provide electric, gas, sewer, water, telephone, telegraph and other telecommunication services, without filing written notice of his intention to so remove, fill, dredge or alter, including such plans as may be necessary to describe s
Full Breakdown
Applications may require an arborist report. Street trees in the right-of-way are managed exclusively by Bristol County public works or urban forestry. Dead, dying, or hazardous trees may qualify for expedited removal. Replacement planting is usually required. Massachusetts state law may preempt local tree ordinances in certain circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Bristol County?
What are the tree removal rules in Bristol County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bristol County
Compare Bristol County to another location·View the Massachusetts landscaping rules overview
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