Mahwah reserves authority to plant, prune, and maintain trees within public rights-of-way, while permitting non-harmful pruning on private property without a permit.
Chapter 14 of Mahwah's code grants the Township exclusive authority to plant, prune, maintain, and remove trees and shrubs in rights-of-way, easements, and public grounds for public safety or aesthetic purposes. Public utility companies may selectively trim shade trees to protect utility lines, but only as necessary and consistent with accepted horticultural standards. On private property, cutting, pruning, or trimming that does not harm tree health is allowed without a permit, while removal or destructive pruning of regulated trees triggers the tree-removal permit process.
Unauthorized trimming or removal of street or right-of-way trees can result in fines, restoration orders, and replacement obligations. Damaging a regulated private tree without a permit may invoke replacement requirements under Ordinance 2033.
See how other cities in Bergen County handle tree trimming.
See how Mahwah's tree trimming rules stack up against other locations.
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