Meriden, CT Tree Protection: Parkway Planting (2026)

Meriden Code § 196-4B(2) requires the Urban Forestry Plan to include a Master Street Tree Plan, which the Code defines as a City-wide, street-by-street written evaluation of the tree species best suited to a particular planting site, weighing growing habits, shape, form, health, and disease and pest resistance against conflicts with wires, lights, pavement, traffic, pedestrians, sidewalks, pollution, sewers and available space. The plan must also recommend maintenance and replacement of existing street trees and recommend the types of street trees to plant in new residential, commercial or industrial subdivisions.

Planting itself is separately permitted: § 196-4C(1) bars anyone from planting, treating, pruning, removing or otherwise disturbing a tree or shrub on public land, or a public tree or tree or shrub on the public way, without first getting a permit from the Tree Warden. The Tree Warden, appointed by the City Manager under § 196-4 for an initial one-year term and three-year terms after that, must have a working knowledge of arboricultural practices. In reviewing a planting-related permit, § 196-4C(2) directs the Warden to weigh factors including rarity, invasiveness, feasible alternatives and the public benefit or burden of allowing or denying the activity.

The Urban Forestry Plan and Master Street Tree Plan are developed by the Tree Warden with the Conservation Commission's assistance and updated every subsequent year, under § 196-4B(1).