Norfolk County, MA Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Norfolk 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 permit + public hearing (MGL c. 87)
- Private Trees
- Check town preservation bylaw (diameter trigger varies)
- Fine (Public Tree)
- Up to $500 per tree (MGL c. 87 §3)
- County Rule?
- None: state law and municipal bylaws
- Replacement
- Some towns require replacement planting
Summary
Tree removal in Norfolk County is governed by state law (MGL c. 87 for public trees) and municipal bylaws. Public shade trees require a Tree Warden permit. Many Norfolk County towns also require permits to remove large private trees.
Section 40. 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, telep
Full Breakdown
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 87 prohibits removing public shade trees (those within or alongside a public way) without a permit from the municipal Tree Warden and a public hearing. Private tree removal rules vary by municipality: some Norfolk County towns (including Brookline, Newton, and others) have tree preservation bylaws that require permits to remove trees above a certain diameter (commonly 8–12 inches DBH) on private property. Replacement plantings may be required. Penalties for unauthorized removal of public trees can be significant. Norfolk County itself does not regulate tree removal; all authority rests with state agencies and individual municipalities.
Violations & Fines
Unauthorized removal of public shade tree: MGL c. 87 §3, fine up to $500 per tree. Municipal private-tree bylaws: fines vary, commonly $100–$500 per tree plus required replanting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Norfolk County?
What are the tree removal rules in Norfolk County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Norfolk County
Compare Norfolk County to another location·View the Massachusetts landscaping rules overview
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