Tree Work in Massachusetts: What Homeowners Should Know

State rules

The state laws that shape a Massachusetts tree job

Trees along public roads. A tree within a public way or on its boundary is a public shade tree, and where the boundary can't be found in the records the tree is treated as public until shown otherwise (M.G.L. c.87 §1). Only the tree warden or a deputy may cut, trim or remove one, even if it stands on your land, unless the tree warden gives a written permit. Taking one down requires a public hearing, announced on the tree and in two other public places at least seven days ahead and in a local newspaper in two successive weeks (c.87 §3). If anyone objects in writing, the removal also needs approval from the select board or mayor (c.87 §4).

Scenic roads. Once a town designates a road as scenic, road work that cuts or removes trees or takes down stone walls needs the planning board's written consent after an advertised hearing, combined with the tree warden's hearing when both apply (M.G.L. c.40 §15C).

Wetlands and the 100-foot buffer. Altering a wetland, bank or other protected area requires a notice of intent with the conservation commission first (M.G.L. c.131 §40). The state's regulations extend review to work within 100 feet of those areas. Vista pruning more than 50 feet from the wetland edge counts as a minor activity, but there's no general allowance for removing trees in the buffer (310 CMR 10.02). Many towns add their own bylaw on top, with stricter no-disturb strips.

Digging. State law defines excavation broadly, covering digging, augering, grading and more, and requires notice to Dig Safe at least 72 hours before excavating, not counting weekends and legal holidays (M.G.L. c.82 §40A, definition of excavation, c.82 §40). Dig Safe recommends that the contractor make the call when one is hired (Dig Safe FAQ), and its members mark only their own lines, not private ones like sprinkler pipes or yard lighting (how Dig Safe works). Ask your tree company whether its job needs a ticket.

Wires to the house. National Grid trims around its high-voltage lines and leaves the low-voltage service drop to your house to you; it will disconnect that wire for your tree company with at least five days' notice at 1-800-322-3223 (National Grid tree FAQ).

Burning the brush. Brush can be burned from January 15 to May 1 with a fire department permit, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at least 75 feet from dwellings. Stumps and leaves can't be burned, and 22 cities and towns, Lowell among them, ban open burning entirely (open burning rules).

Pests that change the decision. Spongy moth caterpillars have caused oak decline and mortality across the state, and for larger trees the Department of Conservation and Recreation recommends hiring a certified arborist who is a licensed pesticide applicator (DCR spongy moth guide). Emerald ash borer has been confirmed in 280 Massachusetts communities, and the state advises chipping ash wood or leaving it on site rather than moving it (emerald ash borer guide).

Last verified November 2026.