Tree removal permit rules in Worcester, MA — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Public shade trees in Worcester are protected under MGL Chapter 87 and require a public hearing before removal. Private tree removal generally does not require permits unless in a historic district or conservation area.
Public shade trees in Worcester — those in the public right-of-way, parks, and public land — are protected under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 87. Removal of public shade trees requires a public hearing before the Tree Warden or designated authority. Private trees on residential property can generally be removed without a city permit, but properties in historic districts or conservation zones may face additional review requirements. Worcester's Urban Forestry division oversees public tree management and may provide guidance on replacement planting. The city encourages replanting after tree removal to maintain the urban canopy. Certain trees near wetlands or waterways may be subject to Conservation Commission review under the Wetlands Protection Act.
Unauthorized removal of a public shade tree: triple damages under MGL Ch. 242 §7. Conservation violations: restoration orders.
Worcester, MA
Worcester enforces quiet hours between 10 PM and 7 AM on weekdays and 11 PM to 7 AM on weekends under the city's Excessive and Unreasonable Noise ordinance. ...
Worcester, MA
Worcester regulates construction noise under its noise ordinance. Construction activities generating excessive noise are restricted during quiet hours. Permi...
Worcester, MA
Worcester addresses barking dogs under both the noise ordinance and animal control regulations. Dogs creating persistent noise that disturbs neighbors consti...
Worcester, MA
MGL c. 90, §22C — abandoned vehicles on public ways tagged after 72 hours, may be towed. Worcester Police and DPW enforce. City also has an 'Unregistered Veh...
Worcester, MA
Worcester regulates parking of recreational vehicles, boats, and trailers in residential areas. These vehicles should be stored on private property and are s...
Worcester, MA
Worcester requires vehicles to be parked on approved hard surfaces. Driveway construction or modification requires permits. Vehicles may not be parked on fro...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Worcester County.
See how other cities in Worcester County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
See how Worcester's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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