Suffolk County, MA Tree Protection: Tree Replacement Requirements (2026)

Tree replacement in Suffolk County follows layered state/city rules. MGL c. 87 §6 requires that where a public shade tree is removed, the Tree Warden may order replacement planting as a condition. Boston Article 80 large project review (Boston Zoning Code Article 80) requires tree inventory and replacement/mitigation plans for Small Project Review (20,000-50,000 sq ft) and Large Project Review (50,000+ sq ft) developments. Typical Boston replacement ratio: 1:1 for street trees, 2:1 or 3:1 for significant private-property trees removed for development. Replacement trees must meet Boston Parks specifications: minimum 2.5-inch caliper, balled-and-burlapped, from the Boston approved species list emphasizing native and urban-tolerant varieties (e.g., American Elm cultivars, Swamp White Oak, Honeylocust, Zelkova, London Plane). Boston's Urban Forest Plan (2022) aims to expand canopy from 27% to 35% by 2035 — new plantings prioritize environmental-justice neighborhoods (Dorchester, Roxbury, East Boston, Mattapan). Establishment warranty typically 2 years. Fee-in-lieu available when site constraints prevent replacement — funds go to Boston Parks tree account. Chelsea, Revere, and Winthrop follow MGL c. 87 replacement standards.