Boston regulates tree removal through the Parks and Recreation Department and Zoning Code Article 38. Public shade trees and street trees cannot be removed without a public hearing and Parks Commissioner approval. Private property tree removal in development projects requires BPDA review and replacement plantings.
Tree removal in Boston is subject to strict oversight. Public shade trees (street trees and trees on city property) are protected under MGL c.87 (the Public Shade Tree Law) and require a public hearing before the Boston Tree Warden (housed in the Parks Department) before removal. Notice must be posted and abutters notified at least 7 days before the hearing. Boston Zoning Code Article 38 (Greenway Protection Overlay District) imposes additional tree protection in designated areas, requiring permits for removal of trees above a certain caliper. For private development projects reviewed by the BPDA, tree surveys are required and developers must demonstrate efforts to preserve significant trees. When removal is unavoidable, replacement plantings are required at ratios that vary by project size. The Urban Forest Plan guides citywide tree canopy goals. Boston has a goal of increasing tree canopy from approximately 27% to 35%. Emergency tree removal (storm damage, hazardous conditions) may proceed without a hearing but requires Parks Department notification.
Removal of a public shade tree without a hearing and approval carries fines up to 3 times the assessed value of the tree under MGL c.87. Unauthorized removal in Article 38 areas carries zoning penalties. Developers who remove trees without approval face project delays and required enhanced replacement plantings.
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