Monmouth County, NJ Tree Protection: Tree Replacement Requirements (2026)

Tree replacement requirements accompany most Monmouth County tree removal permits. Standard replacement ratios: 1:1 for small permitted trees (6 to 12 inch DBH removed), 2:1 for medium (12 to 24 inch), and 3:1 or greater for large or significant specimens (24+ inch DBH). Replacement tree minimum caliper is typically 2 to 2.5 inches measured 6 inches above ground (or 6 feet for evergreens). Approved species lists across Monmouth favor native and adapted trees including white oak (Quercus alba), red oak, swamp white oak, willow oak, sugar maple, red maple, American beech, sweetgum, tulip poplar, black gum (Nyssa sylvatica), American holly (state tree), eastern redbud, and serviceberry. Shore-adjacent towns emphasize salt-tolerant species — live oak variants, southern magnolia, American holly, and eastern red cedar. Invasive species like Norway maple, Bradford/Callery pear, and tree-of-heaven are prohibited as replacements. Replacement trees must be planted on the same property when space allows; if not feasible, fee-in-lieu is paid to the municipal tree fund (typically $300 to $500 per required tree). A 1 to 2 year establishment period requires owner maintenance — dead replacements must be re-planted. Commercial site development requires tree plans reviewed by municipal engineer or shade tree commission.