Tree management in Bristol County is handled at the municipal level. Each town has a Tree Warden responsible for public shade trees under MGL Ch. 87. Property owners may trim branches extending over their property line. Some towns like Attleboro have adopted specific tree protection ordinances.
Massachusetts has strong public shade tree protections under MGL c.87 §§1 to 12. Public shade trees along roads require tree warden consent for removal or significant trimming. Bristol County’s tree warden manages public trees. Some municipalities have additional protected tree bylaws for significant private trees. Routine trimming generally doesn’t require permits. Trees overhanging property lines: owner can trim branches to the property line. Development projects must address tree impacts.
Unauthorized removal of public shade tree: $500 to $5,000+ (MGL c.87 §6). Replacement planting may be required.
Bristol County, MA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Bristol County.
See how other cities in Bristol County handle tree trimming.
See how Somerset's tree trimming rules stack up against other locations.
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