Cherry Hill, NJ Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Section 21-11 of the Township Code, added by Ordinance No. 8. Subsection 21-11c places the duty of care for every tree on a private property squarely on the owner, up to and including the curb line, and then gives the Township independent authority to intervene: should a tree interfere with sight lines or the flow of traffic, the Director of Public Works and other government agencies have the authority and discretion to trim or otherwise alleviate the interference at the property owner's expense. That means a homeowner can be billed for Township-ordered trimming of their own tree if it has grown into a sight triangle at an intersection or driveway.

Subsection 21-11a separately lets the Director remove or require removal of any tree, or part of one, that is dangerous to public safety, at his or her own discretion, without going through the permit process. Subsection 21-11b lets the Director require treatment or removal of a diseased or insect-infested tree on private property at the owner's expense, but only after the New Jersey Department of Agriculture certifies the condition and only with the owner's consent to enter. Separately, § 21-7 bars anyone cutting or removing a tree from dropping debris, limbs or other material onto a paved street, sidewalk or curb during the work.