Tree Removal Rules in West Windsor: What Homeowners Need to Know 🌿

Last year West Windsor’s Township Council adopted Ordinance 2024‑08, revamping Chapter 170 (“Trees”) and introducing new requirements for removing trees on residential properties.

Why Now? The Roots in NJ Stormwater Law

The changes weren’t made on a whim.  They stem from a 2023 update to New Jersey’s Tier A Stormwater General Permit. Trees play a vital part in reducing soil erosion, filtering pollutants, and managing water runoff.  The NJDEP required all municipalities to formalize tree-removal standards tied to stormwater management.

West Windsor dutifully followed suit. Guided by the Shade Tree Commission and community volunteers, the Township adopted a local ordinance modeled after the NJDEP’s 2023 guidance.

🌲 What the New Rules Mean for Residents

1. Permits Now Required

• A Tree Removal Permit is required for removing any tree 6″ DBH or greater (DBH = Diameter at Breast Height), including single-family homes.

• This replaces the old exemption that applied to most homeowners before fall 2024 .

2. Three-Tree Exemption

• If you own a property ≤ 1 acre, you can remove up to 3 trees (under 33″ DBH) in any rolling five-year period without planting replacements, as long as you obtain the permit.

• For larger properties, the limit is 3 trees per acre, prorated.

3. Replacing Trees or Paying In-Lieu Fees

• Remove more than the exemption limit? You must replant trees on your property or:

• Pay a fee into the township’s tree fund to support community replanting.

4. Dangerous Tree Exemption

• Trees deemed hazardous, like those within 25 ft of a residence or severely damaged, are exempt from replacement rules, but still need a permit to document the removal.  For emergency situations, permits can be obtained after the fact.

• Licensed tree experts or arborists must certify danger in writing.

  
  

🌱 Beyond the Rules: The Township’s Vision

These guidelines reflect West Windsor’s commitment to environmental stewardship, not just compliance. The updated ordinance aligns with the Township’s Community Forestry Management Plan, aiming to preserve canopy cover, reduce flooding, and enhance local biodiversity.

The Shade Tree Commission provides support via its Guidelines & Policy page—complete with FAQs, application forms, planting tips, and approved tree lists.  They also steer clear of invasive species and encourage residents to work with licensed experts, ensuring safe, responsible tree care.

🏡 What This Means for You — A Quick Checklist

You’re…	What to Do
A homeowner removing trees	✔️ File a Tree Removal Permit ✔️ Track removals—3 trees under DBH limit allowed/5 years ✔️ Replant or pay fee if limit exceeded
Concerned about storm damage	⚠️ Dangerous trees can be removed with permit & expert certification; exemptions apply
Looking to plant new trees	🌳 Use the Township’s Preferred Trees List and planting guides on the Shade Tree Commission site

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Community & Conservation Grows Together

These measures balance property rights with a shared responsibility to protect West Windsor’s tree canopy and manage stormwater wisely. By planting thoughtfully and removing trees responsibly, we can all contribute to a greener, healthier town.

Curious or have questions?  Visit the Shade Tree Commission’s Guidelines & Policy page, contact the Township’s Shade Tree staff at 609-799-2400, or drop by the next Shade Tree Commission meeting.

Let's grow together! 🌼