Boston, MA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Boston Code § 7-4.7(D)
- Responsible official
- Commissioner of Parks and Recreation
- Trimming triggers
- Public travel or street-lamp interference
- Related state authority
- M.G.L. Chapter 87, § 13
Summary
Boston Code § 7-4.7(D) puts the Commissioner of Parks and Recreation in charge of trimming shade trees standing in the street so they don't interfere with public travel or street lighting, and of enforcing the tree-protection ordinances.
The Commissioner of Parks and Recreation shall have the care and superintendence of all trees, plants and shrubs belonging to the city; shall trim all shade trees standing in the street so that they shall not interfere with public travel; shall carry out all orders of the Commissioner of Public Works made after public notice and hearing to remove trees standing in the street; shall, upon request of the Officer having charge of the public lamps, trim in such manner as said Officer may require any tree which interferes with the proper lighting of a street.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-2: Current through Ordinance 2025 C. 14, passed 11-5-2025).
Full Breakdown
' The Commissioner must also carry out Public Works Commissioner orders (issued after public notice and hearing) to remove trees standing in the street, and, on request of the officer in charge of public lamps, must trim any tree that interferes with proper street lighting, in whatever manner that officer requires. L. Chapter 87, § 13, and may issue regulations implementing Chapter 87. 7(F)-(G): routine clearance trimming to protect travel or lighting is a Commissioner duty performed directly, while cutting, trimming beyond routine clearance, or removing a public shade tree at a third party's request requires the separate Tree Warden approval process.
Violations & Fines
Section 7-4.7(D) is framed as a municipal duty rather than a private-party prohibition; it does not itself set a fine schedule. Trimming or removal of a public shade tree outside the Commissioner's routine clearance authority, without Tree Warden approval, is enforced under the removal-permit provisions of § 7-4.7(F)-(G).
Frequently Asked Questions
Who trims street trees blocking sidewalks or roads in Boston?
Does the city trim trees blocking streetlights?
Can a resident trim a public shade tree themselves?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Boston
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