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

Heritage tree protection in Ocean County operates at multiple levels. Municipal Shade Tree Commissions (established under N.J.S.A. 40:64) may designate landmark or specimen trees — Toms River and Brick maintain registries identifying trees of size, age, species rarity, or historical significance. Designation criteria typically include 24+ inch DBH for oaks, 30+ inches for pines, or association with historic properties. Pinelands Commission CMP (N.J.A.C. 7:50-6.29) protects specimen trees and threatened plant species including Pinelands orchid populations. Atlantic white cedar (Chamaecyparis thyoides) receives specific protection as a NJ state-designated species under the NJ Forest Practices Act — significant stands remain in Barnegat Bay tributaries and Pinelands wetlands. Dogwood anthracnose-resistant flowering dogwood and the rare sand myrtle receive habitat protection. LBI municipalities protect ancient maritime holly and pitch pine stands. Damage during construction triggers per-inch-of-DBH fines (often $100-$500 per inch) plus remediation costs. Residents may nominate significant trees to the local Shade Tree Commission for heritage designation.