A Homeowner's Guide to Somerville Tree Service Regulations

Tree Preservation Ordinance and Regulations in Somerville

Somerville has an extremely strong Tree Preservation Ordinance and regulations regarding trees — one of the strongest in Massachusetts. To remove any tree, whether on public or private land, you must first obtain a permit. The current version of the Tree Preservation Ordinance was adopted by the City Council in 2019, and it increased protection for trees on private lands beyond what existed for public tree lands.

Requirements for Tree Removal Permits

A permit is required to remove a tree if it is over 8 inches in diameter at the base (measured 4.5 feet from the ground). A tree is considered to be over 8 inches in diameter at the base if it is classified as an invasive species, regardless of the size of the tree. The regulations for removing trees in Somerville apply to all non-invasive tree species found throughout Somerville, from the historic neighborhoods surrounding Tufts University to the numerous commercial areas of Davis Square.

Replacement of Removed Trees

If a tree is removed, the property owner must either replant another tree with the same caliper diameter as the original tree or contribute to the city’s Tree Fund. The amount paid into the Tree Fund is currently $600 per caliper inch as of August 2024. Homeowners living in properties with three units or fewer do not have to replant or pay into the Tree Fund if they get permission from the tree warden.

When You Need Professional Tree Service

Once you decide to hire someone to take down a tree, finding a good arborist in Somerville is important because of the strict regulations in place for tree removal. A qualified arborist will know the local regulations and how to successfully go through the permitting process.

Emergency Situations

Trees that pose a threat to public safety or the safety of people or property, or are damaged severely in an emergency, do not need a permit to be removed. However, they must be authorized for removal by the tree warden. Contact the tree warden at trees@somervillema.gov or call 311 to authorize an emergency tree removal.

Exceptions to Permit Requirements

Not all tree removals require a permit. Trees that are less than 8 inches in diameter at the base and invasive species can be removed without a permit. Dead, dying, or hazardous trees are eligible for expedited removal with authorization from the city.

Local Tree Regulations Worked With by Somerville Tree Masters

When searching for tree service near me in Somerville, partnering with a local tree-service company like Somerville Tree Masters helps homeowners understand the regulations in their area. We are aware of the rules governing tree removal and can help homeowners complete the necessary steps.

The Permit Application Process

Homeowners must personally file the permit application — the landscaper or arborist cannot apply on behalf of the homeowner. The application requires drawings of the trees that will be removed and any proposed replacements for the removed trees. The city’s Urban Forestry Committee reviews the application and may waive some of the requirements for the homeowners due to financial hardships or other reasons.

Neighborhood Landmarks

Neighborhood characteristics are often important when caring for trees in Somerville. Properties located close to Davis Square, a busy commercial district that is easily accessible via the Red Line, have different needs than properties located near Assembly Row, a newer development. The tree warden and the Urban Forestry Committee will consider these neighborhood differences when evaluating permit requests.

Heritage Trees

Somerville identifies certain trees as “significant” or “heritage” trees based on their age, species, health, community significance, and historical importance. Heritage trees require special permits before they can be removed. If a heritage tree is removed, the homeowner must provide either a replacement tree or make a payment into the Tree Fund.

Significant Tree Criteria

The city arborist determines which trees are designated as significant based on multiple criteria, including the ecological importance of the tree, its historical significance, and its aesthetic contribution to the community. Significant trees can be found in neighborhoods throughout Somerville, from the academic neighborhoods near Tufts to the family neighborhoods surrounding Ball Square.

Regulations on Tree Maintenance and Pruning

While the regulations discussed above focus on tree removal, tree maintenance, and pruning also fall under city regulation. Regular maintenance and pruning of trees can help protect them and reduce the risk of needing to remove the tree in an emergency. Qualified arborists and tree-care professionals can provide the knowledge and skills needed to properly prune and maintain trees in compliance with city regulations.

Preventative Care Programs

Somerville proactively protects its urban forest from threats such as the emerald ash borer. As part of this effort, the city injects TreeAzin into healthy ash trees every two years and removes ash trees only when necessary. When planning the care for ash trees, homeowners should communicate with city programs.

Consequences for Violating the Tree Ordinance

Failing to follow Somerville’s tree preservation ordinance will result in serious consequences. Damaging or destroying a tree in Somerville can result in fines. In addition, work done on trees without a valid permit will result in an immediate stop-work order, and violating the ordinance can result in a significant fine.

Compliance Best Practices

Before starting any work on a tree, find out about local regulations by consulting a qualified arborist or tree-service provider who knows the regulations. Photographically document the condition of the trees, particularly when there is an emergency removal, and maintain open communication with the tree warden’s office.

Replacement Options and Tree Fund Contributions

When removing permitted trees, property owners have the option of planting trees with the same caliper as the removed trees, paying into the Tree Fund, or using a combination of both. Replacement trees must meet the city’s guidelines for replacement trees and must be planted on the same or adjacent parcels of land.

Tree Fund Payments

Contributions made to the Tree Fund are used to support the city’s urban forestry efforts, including planting new trees in parks and public spaces throughout the city. Payments into the Tree Fund contribute to the ongoing maintenance of the urban canopy that provides shade for neighborhoods across Somerville, from Davis Square to Assembly Row.

Starting Your Tree Care Project in Somerville

Before doing any work on a tree on your property, contact the tree warden’s office at trees@somervillema.gov or call 311. Additionally, select a qualified tree-service company that has experience with Somerville’s unique regulations and can assist with the permitting process if necessary.

Somerville Tree Masters offers the local expertise you need to successfully navigate the city regulations and complete your tree-care project safely and legally.

Using proper planning and obtaining the assistance of a professional will enable you to complete your tree-care project in accordance with Somerville’s regulations and enhance the value of your property while helping to sustain the urban forest canopy of Somerville.