Bloomfield, NJ Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Article VIII of Chapter 497 of the Bloomfield Township Code protects sight lines at streets. Section 497-50 requires the owner of lands in the Township to keep all brush, hedges and other plant life growing on their property within 10 feet of any street, and within 25 feet of the intersection of two streets, cut to a height of not more than 2 1/2 feet. The requirement applies where the Township Council shall deem it necessary and expedient for the preservation of the public safety, so it is triggered by a Council determination rather than applying to every lot automatically.

Section 497-51 sets the deadline: the owner must cut the growth to the height of not more than 2 1/2 feet within 10 days after receipt of notice from the Township Council. If the owner fails, neglects or refuses, § 497-52 lets the work be done by or under the direction of the Township Engineer. The cost is assessed against the property: the Engineer's certified cost goes to the Township Council, which examines it and, if correct, charges it against the lands, or charges the reasonable cost if the amount is excessive. The charge becomes a lien on the land, is added to the taxes next assessed and levied, bears interest at the same rate as other taxes, and is collected and enforced in the manner provided by law for the collection of taxes.

The rule is about height near streets, not about overhead clearance of branches. Trees and plants growing in a public highway, parking strip or park are controlled by Chapter 535. Under § 535-1, it is unlawful for any person, without a written permit from the Township Engineer, to cut, break or injure any tree or plant, or any portion of one, growing in any public highway, parking strip area or park. A person who wants to cut, prune or trim a tree in a public highway applies to the Council, which can issue a written permit if the cutting appears necessary and the method and workmanship meet its approval, and the work must follow the permit strictly.