Ridgefield, CT Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)

Chapter 329, the Town's Tree Ordinance, defines "Landmark, Notable and Asset Trees" as trees the Tree Warden determines are of great age or rarity, associated with a historical event or person, or of tangible value to the community for scenic enrichment or disease survival. Under § 329-3, special consideration is given to inspecting and preserving these trees on Town property, and with the property owner's concurrence, the designation can extend to private trees. The Tree Warden, appointed by the First Selectman with Board of Selectmen approval per Town Charter § 9-16, holds duties under § 329-4 that include selecting and identifying landmark, notable and asset trees on Town property and, with owner concurrence, on private land.

§§ 23-58, 23-59, 23-60 and 23-65). A seven-member Tree Committee, three appointed by the Board of Selectmen and four by the Conservation Commission, advises the Warden on policies for selection, planting, maintenance and removal of trees under § 329-4(B). Damage to a designated or any Town tree, including pruning, defacing, cutting, or applying toxic chemicals such as excess road salt within a tree's root zone, is barred under § 329-4(A)(3)(g), and public utility work near trees is supervised by the Warden with replacement cost recoverable if trees are irreparably damaged.