Forestry FAQ
Trimming, Pruning, Removing or Planting Public Shade Trees
Requesting to have work performed by an outside qualified contractor on a public street tree or town tree? Complete the request form here and return to DPW office.
Requesting standard street tree trimming or evaluation for a public street tree or town tree? Call the office to create a work order.
Under both Chapter 87 and Swampscott’s Trees Bylaw, any person wishing to trim, prune, remove, or plant public shade trees is required to submit a written request to the Tree Warden. See also Hearings for Removal of Public Shade Trees below.
In specific circumstances where there is limited or no sidewalk space for a public street tree, planting of trees in the set back area may be an option upon discussion with the Tree Warden.
Hearings for Removal of Public Shade Trees
With certain exceptions the Tree Warden must hold a public hearing before removal of a Public Shade Tree. The Town must post notice of hearing time and place on the Town’s website, in two or more public places, and on the affected tree at least seven days before such hearing. The Town must also publish the notice in a print or electronic newspaper of general circulation, once in each of two successive weeks. The hearing gives residents an opportunity to voice their concerns and opinions about the proposed tree removal.
The Tree Warden will approve removal of a Public Shade Tree if: (1) the tree interferes with structures, utilities, streets, sidewalks or proposed necessary improvements for which there is no feasible alternative that would save the tree; or (2) the tree is dead, diseased, terminally injured, in danger of falling, or posing a threat to public safety.
Requesting a Tree for Your Street
As a private citizen, you can also help improve Swampscott’s tree canopy by requesting a street tree to be planted in front of your house or on your street in the Town’s right-of-way. A tree can be requested by calling or emailing DPW and your name will be added to a waiting list. The Department of Public Works typically plants 25 to 30 trees a year (in the spring and fall).
The DPW often offers a partnering program. To avoid waiting, contact the DPW to see if partnering is a current option. In this case, you can visit a local nursery and purchase a tree from the Town’s approved tree species list. The minimum size street tree to be planted is 2.5 inch diameter. Once you drop off the paid receipt to the DPW office tree planting can be coordinated.
Residents are strongly encouraged to water the newly planted trees once a week during the summer months of the first 2 years.
Tree Gift Fund
The Town has established a Tree Gift Fund to accept public donations to fund the purchase of public trees. While the Town does budget annually for the planting and replacement of public trees there are limited funds resulting in waiting lists for the replacement of public trees. Donations to the Tree Gift Fund are greatly appreciated. Donations will be accepted publicly at a Select Board meeting, or they can be anonymous. Preferences for the location of trees can also be made. View a sample donation letter.
Concerned about a Public Shade Tree?
Please contact:
DPW (781) 596-8860
Address:
22 Monument Ave
Swampscott, MA 01907
United States