Suffolk County, MA Tree Protection: Tree Removal Permits (2026)

Massachusetts' Public Shade Tree Law (MGL c. 87 §§1-14) gives the municipal Tree Warden authority over all street trees and public trees within the public way — a strong statewide protection across Suffolk County. In Boston, the Tree Warden (housed in Parks & Recreation) must approve any removal of a public shade tree, and removals generally require a public hearing with 7+ day notice posted on the tree. Emergency removals for hazardous trees allowed. Private-property tree protection in Boston is limited — Boston does not have a comprehensive private-property tree ordinance covering backyard trees by trunk diameter, unlike some suburban MA towns (Brookline, Wellesley). However, tree removal on properties subject to Boston Article 80 large project review must include tree inventory and mitigation. The Boston Conservation Commission reviews tree removal within 100 feet of wetlands or 200 feet of perennial streams under MGL c. 131 §40 (Wetlands Protection Act). Historic districts (Beacon Hill, Back Bay, Bay Village) require Boston Landmarks Commission approval for significant tree changes visible from public way. Chelsea, Revere, and Winthrop follow MGL c. 87 for street trees; none have comprehensive private-property tree ordinances. The MA Scenic Road Act (MGL c. 40 §15C) adds protection along designated scenic roads.