Massachusetts Public Shade Tree Removal Hearings Required

Chapter 87, Section 3 requires that no public shade tree may be cut, trimmed, or removed without a public hearing, advertised at least seven days in advance and posted upon the tree itself. Trees with a diameter of one and one-half inches or more measured one foot from the ground qualify as public shade trees if growing in a public way. Section 4 allows removal only after the warden makes findings, and Section 5 requires the mayor or selectboard's approval if any objection is filed. These rules cannot be relaxed by municipalities and form a uniform statewide floor.

Removing a public shade tree without proper hearing under Chapter 87, Section 6 results in fines up to $500 per tree plus liability for actual or treble damages in civil court.