Worcester requires property owners to maintain trees so they do not obstruct sidewalks, streets, or traffic signs. The city's Urban Forestry division manages public trees. Minimum clearance over sidewalks and streets is required.
Worcester requires property owners to trim trees on their property that overhang public sidewalks or streets. Minimum clearance is typically 8 feet above sidewalks and 14 feet above streets. Trees must not obstruct traffic signs, signals, or streetlights. The city's Urban Forestry division manages trees in the public right-of-way and city parks. Public shade trees are protected under MGL Chapter 87, and removal of public trees requires a public hearing. Property owners are generally responsible for tree maintenance on their private property and may be required to address hazardous conditions. Storm-damaged trees posing immediate hazards should be reported to the Department of Public Works.
Failure to trim after notice: city may perform the work and bill the owner. Unauthorized removal of a public shade tree: fines under MGL Ch. 87.
Worcester, MA
Worcester enforces quiet hours between 10 PM and 7 AM on weekdays and 11 PM to 7 AM on weekends under the city's Excessive and Unreasonable Noise ordinance. ...
Worcester, MA
Worcester regulates construction noise under its noise ordinance. Construction activities generating excessive noise are restricted during quiet hours. Permi...
Worcester, MA
Worcester addresses barking dogs under both the noise ordinance and animal control regulations. Dogs creating persistent noise that disturbs neighbors consti...
Worcester, MA
MGL c. 90, §22C — abandoned vehicles on public ways tagged after 72 hours, may be towed. Worcester Police and DPW enforce. City also has an 'Unregistered Veh...
Worcester, MA
Worcester regulates parking of recreational vehicles, boats, and trailers in residential areas. These vehicles should be stored on private property and are s...
Worcester, MA
Worcester requires vehicles to be parked on approved hard surfaces. Driveway construction or modification requires permits. Vehicles may not be parked on fro...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Worcester County.
See how other cities in Worcester County handle tree trimming.
See how Worcester's tree trimming rules stack up against other locations.
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