Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

Rockland County, NY Tree Protection: Tree Replacement Requirements (2026)

Some Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: Clarkstown Town Code →

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Key Facts

Ratio: 1:1 to 3:1
Caliper: 2.5 inch minimum
Fee-in-Lieu: $300-$750 per tree
Warranty: 2 years typical
Species: Native Hudson Valley

These county ordinances apply to of Rockland County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Summary

Rockland County towns require replacement planting when regulated trees are removed. Clarkstown, Ramapo, and Orangetown tree ordinances impose 1:1 to 3:1 replacement ratios with fee-in-lieu options deposited into town tree funds.

Full Breakdown

Rockland towns mandate tree replacement under local preservation chapters. Clarkstown Town Code Chapter 214 and Ramapo Chapter 354 typically require 1:1 replacement for trees 6-18 inches DBH, with escalating ratios up to 3:1 for specimen trees over 24 inches. Replacement trees must meet minimum 2.5-inch caliper for deciduous and 6-foot height for evergreens, selected from approved native species lists emphasizing Hudson Valley natives (oak, maple, tulip poplar, hickory, dogwood). Orangetown Code Ch. 21A permits fee-in-lieu payments to the town tree fund when on-site planting is infeasible. Fees typically range $300-$750 per tree. Post-planting maintenance warranty of 2 years is standard. SEQRA review under 6 NYCRR Part 617 may apply to larger removals associated with subdivisions.

Violations & Fines

Failure to plant required replacements: $250 to $1,500 per tree plus mandated installation under town supervision. Non-payment of fee-in-lieu: lien filed against property under RPTL. Planting non-approved invasive species (Norway maple, tree-of-heaven, callery pear): removal and replanting at owner expense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I plant any tree as a replacement?

No. Clarkstown, Ramapo, and most Rockland towns maintain approved species lists emphasizing Hudson Valley natives. Invasive species such as Norway maple, tree-of-heaven, and Bradford pear are prohibited. Consult your town's Conservation Advisory Council or Building Department for the current list.

What happens to fee-in-lieu money?

Funds are deposited into dedicated town tree or conservation accounts used for street tree planting, park restoration, and emerald ash borer response. Clarkstown and Ramapo have active urban forestry programs supported by these fees.

How does Rockland County compare?

See how Rockland County's tree replacement requirements rules stack up against other locations.

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Rockland County, NY Tree Protection: Tree Replacement Requirements (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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