Mount Vernon, NY Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)
Key Facts
- Heritage tree defined by
- age, rarity, size, historic value
- Heritage trees classified as
- a protected significant tree
- Permit required before removal
- yes
- Notice period before removal
- 20 business days
- Removal fee
- $50 per tree
- Extra board approval needed if
- ARB/Planning Board app pending
- Replacement tree minimum size
- 3 inches DBH
Summary
Mount Vernon designates a "heritage tree" as one with unique, irreplaceable value for its age, rarity, size, or historic significance, and folds that designation into the code's "significant tree" category. A heritage tree cannot be cut down without a Department of Public Works removal permit, and Architectural Review Board or Planning Board approval if a construction application is pending.
HERITAGE TREE: An individual tree with unique value, which is considered irreplaceable. The major criteria for this designation are age, rarity and size, as well as aesthetic, botanical, ecological, cultural and historic value. ... SIGNIFICANT TREE: ... A tree that is protected under this chapter when it either: ... D. ... Is a heritage tree, as defined under the definition of 'heritage tree' in this § 252-2, or a memorial tree, as defined under the definition of 'memorial tree' in this § 252-2.
Full Breakdown
" The chapter does not leave that designation as a label only: the same section makes any heritage tree a "significant tree" under subsection D of that definition, alongside trees over 10 inches DBH and endangered or threatened species. That status strips the routine exemptions in § 252-4B(1), so a heritage tree cannot be removed simply because it is inconvenient; the owner must instead apply to the Department of Public Works for a tree removal permit under § 252-5, give the City 20 business days to inspect, and pay the standard $50 per-tree fee.
§ 252-9 directs the reviewing board to weigh the tree's health, whether it blocks approved construction, and its effect on drainage and neighboring vegetation before allowing removal, and it can require a replacement tree of at least three inches DBH under § 252-10.
Violations & Fines
Cutting down a designated heritage tree without the Department of Public Works removal permit required by § 252-4B(2), or without the Architectural Review Board's or Planning Board's separate approval when § 252-6 applies, is a violation of Chapter 252. A contractor who damages a sidewalk or structure while removing the tree is liable for the repair cost under § 252-4B(4), and the approving authority may condition any permit on planting a replacement tree.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a tree a "heritage tree" in Mount Vernon?
Can I remove a heritage tree from my own yard?
Does a heritage tree get extra protection during a construction project?
Will I have to plant a new tree if mine is removed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Mount Vernon
New York rules heatmap·Compare Mount Vernon to another location·View the New York tree protection overview
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