FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

A tree removal permit IS required for:

Any tree within any wetland or 150’ from a wetland
Any tree on a slope exceeding a grade of 15%
Any tree removal which would be considered clear-cutting*
Any specimen tree
Any tree designated by the NY State Department of Environmental Conservation (“NYSDEC”) as a protected native plan

A tree removal permit is NOT required:

if a tree (or trees) is located up to 100 feet from a dwelling and would reach the dwelling if it were to fall due to natural causes.
for any tree that is dead, diseased, and/or in a state of irreversible decline or decay, as determined by a professional arborist (or other licensed tree service professional retained by the property owner or resident), or which poses a substantial risk to life or property if the tree is not removed.
for tree removal in connection with construction, for which a building permit application has been submitted or approved by the Building Inspector.
for the removal of no more than three trees, of any kind, type or diameter within a calendar year excluding the removal of a tree(s) for which a permit is obtained. The number of trees shall exclude any tree removal as necessary to control forest fires during a fire.
for tree removal determined necessary to maintain Town, County, State or utility rights-of-way.
for tree removal directed by the NYSDEC for control of invasive species or pest control. (For a complete list of invasive species, visit the New York State “Prohibited and Regulated Invasive Species” guide.
for tree removal that is part of a forest management plan filed and approved by the NYSDEC or any other agency having jurisdiction.
for trees removed to enable agricultural activity.
for any tree removal in a Special Character Overlay District.

Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) is a standard measurement of trees made at 4 1/2 feet above ground level on the uphill side.

A tree with a DBH of 18 inches or larger. Small native or ornamental flowering trees with a DBH of eight inches or larger are also considered specimen trees.

The Town’s goal is to preserve specimen trees if possible, however if alternatives do not exist to achieve the objectives of the applicant, a tree removal permit application should be completed and the Town will assess the request.

Sometimes permission to remove a tree(s) is granted with the condition of the homeowner providing an approved tree mitigation plan to minimize the environmental impact of the change to the area. The mitigation plan will also contain such elements as mowing requirements and reasonable support of the health of the new trees and plantings.

If you see tree cutting activity within our town that you are concerned is not being done in accordance with the Tree Preservation Ordinance, please contact the Town Building Department by phone or email.