6 Tree Removal Rules in Fort Lee, Englewood, Leonia and Tenafly That Buyers and Sellers Miss
Who this is for: sellers clearing a yard before listing, and buyers planning an addition, a driveway, or a pool after closing.
1. Most of these towns regulate trees on private property.
Fort Lee, Englewood, Leonia and Tenafly all require a permit before you take down a tree of regulated size on your own lot. Check before you call the tree service.
2. The size limit is smaller than people think.
Fort Lee regulates trees more than 6 inches in diameter, measured 4.5 feet above the ground. Tenafly's permit form covers 6 inches and up. Leonia and Englewood start at 8 inches, and Englewood also counts any tree 30 feet tall.
3. Replacement can cost more than the removal.
Fort Lee requires one new tree for every 12 inches of diameter removed. Where replanting is not possible, the fee in lieu is $500 per tree, or $1,000 for trees over 24 inches. Leonia charges a $350 replacement fee per tree, waived for dead or diseased trees certified by a licensed tree expert. Englewood requires at least $300 per required replacement.
4. Fort Lee gives owner-occupants one tree.
An owner-occupied one- or two-family home in Fort Lee may remove one tree every three years, and the $75 fee is waived for that one tree. Fort Lee still inspects before the permit issues.
5. The penalties are per tree.
Fort Lee can fine up to $2,000 per violation, with each tree counted separately. Englewood charges $1,000 for each tree removed beyond what was permitted.
6. Buyers should ask before closing.
If you plan an addition, a wider driveway, or a pool, find out which trees stand in the way and what the permit and replacement will cost. That belongs in your budget before you write the offer.
Planning a sale or a purchase in Bergen County? Request a conversation at https://meet.sellecksellsnj.com or compare towns at https://northernnj.sellecksellsnj.com/towns/
Scott Selleck, REALTOR, Broker Sales Associate | The Selleck Group | Keller Williams City Views Realty | 2200 Fletcher Avenue, Suite 502, Fort Lee, NJ 07024 | Cell 201-970-3960 | Licensed since 1993. Confirm current rules with your town before removing any tree.
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