Mahwah Township requires a permit before removing any tree 12 inches or greater in diameter on private property under Chapter 14, with applications filed at least 15 business days in advance.
Chapter 14 of Mahwah's municipal code, repealed and replaced by Ordinance No. 2033 on June 24, 2024 to conform with the NJDEP model, prohibits cutting, destroying, removing, or substantially injuring any tree on private property without township approval. A tree is defined as any woody perennial plant 12 inches or greater in diameter or 38-inch circumference at ground level. Permit applications must be submitted to the Department of Land Use at least 15 business days before removal, and a pre-removal inspection is required with the property owner, tree contractor, and township representative present. Diseased, dead, or hazardous trees and routine pruning are exempt.
Violations carry fines up to $2,000 per tree, with each tree treated as a separate offense.
See how other cities in Bergen County handle tree removal permits.
See how Mahwah's tree removal permits rules stack up against other locations.
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