West Haven, CT Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Section 213-3B(2)(e), part of the Tree Ordinance adopted 11-25-2002 by the City Council of the City of West Haven, sets the trimming standard for public utilities. The City recognizes that utilities schedule trimming to protect wires and keep service continuous, and it insists that all such trimming is performed under the direct supervision of a licensed arborist. All pruning cuts must be horticulturally correct and in compliance with the standards endorsed by the National Arborist Association. Before removing any tree on City property, the utility notifies the City Tree Warden, unless the tree is an immediate and substantial threat to life or property. Removal requests go in writing to the Tree Warden, 355 Main Street, West Haven, CT 06516, and the Tree Warden can consult the Tree Commission before posting the trees for removal.

Routine utility trimming to keep branches a safe distance from wires is exempt from the permit rule, but only if it complies with § 213-3B(2)(e) (§ 213-4B(2)). For everyone else, § 213-4A(1) requires a permit from the City Tree Warden to prune, remove or otherwise disturb any tree, shrub or forested area on City-owned property. The exceptions leave the Commissioner of Parks and Recreation in charge of trees in any City park and the West Haven Board of Education in charge of trees on public school grounds.

City property is defined broadly. Under § 213-2 it includes property within lawfully established rights-of-way, and City control extends to limbs, roots or parts of trees and shrubs that extend or overhang the limits of any City road. A tree or shrub on private or City property that interferes with the use of City property, carries an infectious plant disease or endangers life, health or safety is a public nuisance. The chapter prints no clearance height over a street or sidewalk. For City work, the Tree Warden hires arborists or contractors for pruning and maintenance on City property (§ 213-3B(2)(b)).