Old Bridge, NJ Tree Protection: Protected Tree Species (2026)

Chapter 457, Trees and Invasive Species, defines a SPECIMEN TREE in § 457-2 as any tree in fair or better condition that the Conservation Officer designates because it is a rare species or specimen, is abnormal in height, trunk diameter or drip line circumference for its species, has unusual foliage, or occupies a location that gives it special shade, fragrance, erosion control, aesthetic, scenic, historic, preservation or cultural value. A HISTORIC TREE is separately defined as one found to be of notable historic interest to Old Bridge because of its age, type, size or historic association, with that finding officially made and recorded by the municipality, county or state.

Once a tree carries either designation, § 457-3B requires it to be maintained in a living condition, bars removal without an approved tree removal permit, and additionally requires the applicant to obtain the governing body's approval before any specimen or historic tree can come down, a higher bar than the Conservation Officer sign-off that applies to an ordinary six-inch-dbh tree under § 457-3A. Any application proposing to remove a specimen or historic tree must indicate the tree on the required tree preservation and removal plan under § 457-5(5), and the Township expects all reasonable efforts, including relocating infrastructure, roadways or buildings, before the governing body will consider approval.

Enforcement runs through the Conservation Officer, who administers the chapter and can issue violation notices, sign complaints and testify in Municipal Court under § 457-16, with an appeal of a denial or violation finding going to the Township Council within 10 days under § 457-18.