Boston's Public Tree Protection Ordinance (Boston Code Section 7-4.7) protects all trees on city-owned property, requires replacement of removed healthy street trees with equivalent specimens, and is enforced by the Urban Forestry Division under the Parks Commissioner.
In 2023, the Boston City Council and Mayor Michelle Wu approved the Public Tree Protection Ordinance, amending Boston Code Chapter VII, Section 7-4.7. The ordinance extends protections to all trees growing on property owned by the City of Boston, expanding rules previously limited to street trees. Street trees are also protected under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 87, which has been in effect for over a century and governs the removal of public shade trees. Only the Urban Forestry Division and its authorized contractors may prune or remove trees on city sidewalks and property. Healthy street trees that are removed must be replaced with trees of equivalent size and species in the same neighborhood. The Commissioner of Parks and Recreation has care and superintendence of all city trees, plants, and shrubs. The Tree Warden handles replacement plantings, advancing the Urban Forest Plan's goal of equitable canopy distribution. An Urban Forestry Advisory Committee advises on implementation.
Unauthorized removal or damage to city trees results in fines and mandatory replacement. The Urban Forestry Division issues citations carrying financial penalties for violations of tree regulations.
Boston, MA
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Boston, MA
Boston has no specific ordinance regulating inflatable holiday displays on private residential property. Inflatables must not encroach on sidewalks, block pu...
Boston, MA
Boston does not have a dedicated ordinance regulating holiday lighting on private residential property. General nuisance, electrical safety, and historic dis...
Boston, MA
Permanent outdoor kitchens in Boston require Inspectional Services Department permits when they include gas, plumbing, electrical, or structural work. Built-...
Boston, MA
Boston treats smokers and solid-fuel grills (wood, pellet, charcoal) the same as charcoal grills under Massachusetts Fire Code 527 CMR 1.00. Use on balconies...
Boston, MA
Boston's Fire Prevention Code (527 CMR 1.00, Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code) prohibits the use or storage of LP-gas grills and propane cylinder...
See how Boston's tree ordinances rules stack up against other locations.
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