Hudson County, NJ Tree Protection: Tree Removal Permits (2026)

Tree protection in Hudson County is anchored by the NJ Community Forestry Act (N.J.S.A. 13:1L-17.1) and local Shade Tree Commission ordinances. Jersey City Ordinance Chapter 345 (Trees) establishes the Jersey City Shade Tree Commission and requires permits for removal of street trees (city-owned, in right-of-way) and private trees 6+ inches DBH (diameter at breast height, 4.5 ft). Permits are issued by JC Division of Environmental Services and the Shade Tree Commission. Hoboken maintains an active Shade Tree Commission under Ord. §165 with a certified community forestry plan and similar permit requirements. Bayonne, Union City, and North Bergen all have shade tree ordinances. Unauthorized removal of a street tree is particularly serious — JC fines are assessed per the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) tree valuation method, often $1,000 to $10,000+ per tree depending on species and size. Jersey City's 'Tree Jersey City' planting initiative (goal 1,000+ trees annually) emphasizes the importance of canopy in the dense urban fabric. Dead, diseased, or hazardous trees may qualify for expedited removal permits with arborist report. Replacement planting typically required 1:1 or 2:1 ratio.