Tree Removal in Belleville, NJ

Tree removal in Belleville comes with a local rulebook. Chapter 34 of the township code, rewritten by Ordinance No. 3595 in September 2020, covers street trees, dead trees near sidewalks and the removal of larger trees on private land. Before we schedule anything, we measure the trunk and talk through which part of the chapter might apply to your tree.

This page summarizes what the code says. It is not legal advice, and rules can change, so verify current requirements with Belleville officials ahead of time.

The 18-inch measurement

Under Section 34-3.2, a "significant tree" is a healthy woody perennial with a trunk more than 18 inches across, measured 4 feet above the ground. Section 34-3.3 says a permit is needed before cutting or removing a significant or landmark tree anywhere in the township. During the estimate we take that measurement so you know where your tree falls.

What the application involves

• Filing with the Construction Official, including the lot and block, owner details and the reason for removal
• A simple plan showing the tree's species and diameter
• Marking the trunk with a colored ribbon at 4 feet so the township can identify it
• A fee of $50 per tree if you plant a replacement, or $100 per tree if you do not
• A decision from the Township Forester within 20 business days, who may require replanting

Conditions the code lists for a permit

Section 34-3.3 lists conditions under which a permit can be granted, such as when a tree is dead or a safety hazard, stands within 15 feet of a building, sits in a planned driveway, walkway or utility path, or falls inside a new building footprint. Section 34-3.5 exempts dead or diseased trees and trees posing an imminent threat, as determined by the Construction Official or, in the code's words, another "qualified New Jersey-certified tree expert." If you believe your tree qualifies for an exemption, get that confirmed in writing before cutting.

When the township notices a dead tree first

Section 34-1 lets the township require removal of a dead or dying tree that threatens people on public sidewalks or streets, with 30 days to act after written notice. If you have received a notice like that, call (201) 957-7596 to set up an estimate so you can work toward that deadline with a written quote.

Street trees and the cherry trees nearby

Trees in public streets and rights-of-way fall under Section 34-2, which requires the Township Forester's permission to cut, prune or remove them. Part of Branch Brook Park and its cherry trees lies in Belleville, and Belleville calls itself the Cherry Blossom Capital of America, which is one more reason to check with the township before work near the curb.