Tree Division

Tree Services

Assessments

If you have a question regarding the health of a City tree please contact the Department of Public Works at (781) 979-4170. You will be asked to provide your name, telephone number, address and type of work you are requesting. A work order will be opened at that time and the Tree Warden will schedule an assessment. The Tree Warden will determine the status of the tree and schedule any necessary work. You may be contacted if unique arrangements need to be made such as access to a driveway. Work is scheduled based on priority so please be patient.

Pruning

Pruning is a regular part of maintaining a healthy tree. If the Tree Warden determines a tree needs to be pruned, the tree will be placed on the pruning list. Work will be completed based on priority. Utility companies such as National Grid also complete pruning in the City to maintain their overhead lines.  

Tree Removals

Public trees may only be removed with the consent of the City's Tree Warden. Only trees that are deemed dead, dying or hazardous can be removed. The United States Department of Agriculture's How to Recognize Hazardous Defects in Trees defines a "hazard tree" as "a tree with structural defects likely to cause failure of all or part of the tree, which could strike a 'target'. A 'target' can be a vehicle , building, or a place where people gather such as a park bench, picnic table, street, or backyard." If the Tree Warden determines a tree should be removed, the tree will be placed on the removal list. Work will be completed based on priority. Once a tree is removed, a stump will be left and the location will be placed on the stump removal list. Once the stump is removed the area will be loamed and seeded. If the site warrants, it will be placed on the tree replacement list.  

Stump Grinding

All stump grinding is outsourced to an outside contractor. Work will be completed based on priority. Once a stump is removed, the area will be loamed and seeded.  

Annual Tree Planting Program

Every year the City's Tree Planting Program replaces trees and fulfills requests for trees throughout the City. Trees are planted at the discretion of the Tree Warden. If the "tree belt" in front of your residence is not a suitable location or if you do not have a "tree belt", the City can, in certain cases, plant trees "setback" on your property. You will receive a letter in the mail when you have been selected as a potential tree recipient. Please see the following link for a complete list of Tree Planting Guidelines. The final location  of a tree will be determined by the Tree Warden. Once a tree is planted it will be staked and tied, and the basin will be mulched. A "Gator Bag" will also be affixed to the tree for watering. We ask that residents assist in watering newly trees. If you would like to request a tree, please call the D.P.W. at (781) 979-4170.