Jackson, NJ Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)

Chapter 405 of the Township Code defines a historic tree, in § 405-2, as one found to be of notable historic interest to Jackson Township because of its age, type, size or historic association, with the designation officially made and entered into the Township's records; a specimen tree is defined separately by rarity, unusual size or foliage, or its shade, aesthetic, scenic, historic or cultural value. Section 405-3B then makes the protection operative: a tree designated specimen or historic must be maintained living, and no one may remove it without an approved tree removal permit and the Shade Tree Commission's approval.

The permit process runs through the Tree Specialist, a forester or certified tree expert appointed by the Mayor under § 405-1D and § 405-17, who inspects the property within 30 days of a complete application and must approve or deny within 10 business days of that inspection under § 405-4F. A denial can be appealed to the governing body within 10 days, with a public hearing and decision due within 60 days. Applications require a tree preservation and removal plan under § 405-5 and payment of a $10 application fee plus a $25 inspection fee under § 405-8. Removed trees generally must be replaced under § 405-9 and § 405-11, and the Tree Escrow Fund finances municipal tree planting and administration.