In Essex County the only tree-removal permit that exists is the tree warden's approval for public shade trees. Chapter 87, section 3 bars cutting any tree in the public way without warden consent granted after an advertised public hearing.
Massachusetts has no general tree-removal permit for private land, but public shade trees, every tree in or on the edge of a public way, are strictly protected. Under chapter 87, section 3, the local tree warden in each Essex city and town must hold a public hearing before consenting to removal, with notice posted on the tree and in two public places for at least seven days and published in a newspaper. Objections can force the tree to stay.
Removing a protected public shade tree without the warden's permit is punishable by forfeiture of up to $500 under section 6, plus the tree's assessed value.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Essex County, MA
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See how Essex County's tree removal permits rules stack up against other locations.
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