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WorcesterTreeQuotes.com

Trees along the road: who can cut them

A tree in or beside the public way is usually a public shade tree. What the state law requires before it's cut or trimmed.

Tree on a power line, or a tree on the house right now? Stay well clear. Call 911 or your electric utility first, then send this.

What do you need?

How many trees? (optional)
Is anything close by? (optional)

e.g., leaning toward the house, dead branches, came down in the storm

Public shade trees

Under Massachusetts law (Chapter 87), every tree within the public way, or on its boundary, is a public shade tree. The town's tree warden cares for these trees, and no one else may plant, trim, cut or remove one without the warden's permission.

The hearing

Before a public shade tree more than 1½ inches in diameter is cut, trimmed or removed, the law requires a public hearing. Notice goes on the tree and in public places at least seven days ahead, and in a local newspaper for two weeks in a row. If someone objects in writing at or before the hearing, the tree can't be cut without the approval of the select board, or the mayor in a city.

The law doesn't stop the removal of a tree that endangers people traveling on a highway.

Scenic roads

Some towns designate scenic roads. On those, trees can't be cut or removed for road repair, maintenance, reconstruction or paving without the planning board's written consent after a hearing, held together with the tree warden's hearing.

What this means for you

  • Not sure whether a tree is yours or the town's? Ask the tree warden before anyone cuts.
  • If the town's tree is damaging your property or looks dangerous, contact the tree warden or public works department.
  • For trees fully on your land, these rules don't apply, though some towns have their own tree bylaws. Ask your town hall.