New Hampshire Roadside Shade and Ornamental Tree Protection

Under RSA 231:139 through 231:148, New Hampshire protects shade and ornamental trees, shrubs, and growth within the public right-of-way of any class IV or V highway. No person may cut, deface, or destroy such trees without a written license from the tree warden, who is appointed by each town as required under RSA 231:139. Public hearings are required before removal of certain trees under RSA 231:145. The state framework applies uniformly, though each municipality administers its tree warden function. Note: trees on private property are not regulated by state law and remain subject to private ownership rights.

Unauthorized cutting or damage to a public shade tree is punishable by fines up to $1,000 plus the value of the tree under RSA 231:152 and RSA 539:1 (treble damages possible).