Burlington has their local tree laws about trimming a tree to keep the city’s trees and people safe. These rules apply to trees on your land and city trees along roads or in parks.
You can get fines or face legal issues if you trim trees without permits. Learning these rules stops expensive mistakes and keeps your property safe and looking good. To avoid fines or complications, it’s important to know when tree trimming permits are needed in Burlington, VT.
In this article, we’ll discuss every detail of legal rules and regulation of trimming a tree. You’ll learn the size rules, when you don’t need permissions, and how to get approval. We’ll also talk about emergency tree work and fee breaks that might help you.
Who Regulates Tree Trimming in Burlington, VT?
Public Works and Parks, Recreation & Waterfront departments control tree service rules in the city. These departments work together to protect local trees through local laws and permits.
Urban Tree Ordinance sets the rules for all tree work in the city. This law protects both private trees on your land and public trees owned by the city.
Public trees grow in street areas, parks, and other city-owned land. Private trees grow on your property but still need permissions if they meet certain size rules.
The city watches both types of trees to keep local tree cover healthy. It’s important to understand which department controls your tree to get the right permits.
When Do You Need a Trimming Permit in Burlington?
Trimming permit based on how big your tree is, what shape it’s in, and where it sits. Burlington tree service guide has simple rules that tell you when you must get permission and when you don’t need to bother.
Permit required if the tree is:
- 20 cm DBH or larger: Any private tree with a trunk diameter of 20 centimeters or more at chest height needs approval. This rule protects larger trees that take years to grow and replace in the local landscape zone.
- Dead, hazardous, or has a terminal condition: Even small trees need approvals if they’re dead, dangerous, or dying because of disease. The city may require a zoning permit but often waives fees for these safety cases.
- A heritage tree or protected species: Special trees get extra protection regardless of their size. Special old trees and rare species need permits even for small trimming jobs in this area.
- Located in the public right-of-way: Any tree on city property, streets, or parks needs official approval. You cannot trim public trees without getting a permit issued through local tree departments first.
Permit not required for:
- Routine pruning of less than ⅓ of the live crown: You can trim up to one-third of healthy branches without getting permission first. This work must use good tree care methods to keep your trees in good shape.
- Trees under 20 cm DBH on private property: Small trees on your land don’t need permits for tree removal or trimming jobs. Measure at chest height to see if your tree fits this rule.
- Nursery/orchard trees: Tree farms and fruit orchards can work on their trees without city permits. This lets local growers handle their crops and keep their businesses running.
- Emergency situations (with post-notification): Storm damage and safety problems let you work first and get permits after. Towns like South Burlington have similar rules for emergency tree work.
How to Apply for a Tree Trimming Permit
Getting tree permits takes several steps and you need the right papers. The process keeps trees safe in public spots and on private land around Burlington.
Step 1: Contact Local Parks, Recreation & Waterfront
Call or visit local Parks, Recreation & Waterfront to start your application process. They handle all tree permits for both private properties and city-owned trees.
Step 2: Measure Your Tree and Document Its Condition
Measure the trunk width at chest height and take good photos of your tree. Note down if there are any tree issues that explain why you want to take it down.
Step 3: Complete the Required Documentation
Fill out the permit papers with the correct tree size and health facts. Include pictures as a proof that show what your tree’s overall looking and where it grows on your property.
Step 4: Submit Your Application With Required Fees
Once you finish your permit application and other necessary paperwork, submit it with required fees. Dead or dangerous trees might get fee breaks during the city review.
Step 5: Wait for City Review and Approval
Local staff will review your application and inspect the tree if necessary. A permit shall be issued once your application meets all city requirements and regulations.
Step 6: Schedule Your Tree Work
Start your tree trimming or removal work only after receiving official permit approval. Keep your permission visible during the work and follow any special conditions listed.
Penalties for Unauthorized Tree Trimming in Burlington
Burlington gets tough on people who break tree rules and will fine you or make you stop work if you don’t have permits. State law supports local tree protection rules, giving the city strong legal authority. Penalties for such things can include:
- Costly fines for violating tree regulations
- Immediate stop-work orders for noncompliance
- Pay full cost for replacement trees
- Legal action for damaging protected trees
- Increased penalties on large developments
- Permit fees required before any work
- Separate permit needed for all tree work
Need Help? Request a Free Quote from Iconic Tree Care
Iconic Tree Care serves Burlington, Colchester, Waterbury, Morrisville, and surrounding Vermont communities with expert tree services. We are a local family-owned business who serve our community with pride and dignity. With local knowledge and experience our team knows local permit rules and handles all paperwork for you.
Our tree professionals provide safe trimming, removal, stump grinding and emergency storm cleanup services. We’re fully insured and work with the city to get proper approval quickly.
Contact us today for your free estimate and let our professionals handle your tree care needs.
FAQs
What size tree needs a permit to trim or cut down in Burlington, VT?
Trees with trunks 20 cm or larger at chest height need permits for removal of trees or major trimming. The city shall require approvals for dead or dangerous trees regardless of size. Small trees under 20 cm on private property don’t need permissions for basic care.
Do I need a trimming permit for the sidewalk trees?
Yes, trees in public places or near sidewalks need approval of the city before any work begins. The department of public works handles permissions for street trees and sidewalk areas. You cannot work on public trees within the city without getting proper approvals first.
Can I trim a tree that goes onto my neighbor’s yard?
You need your neighbor to agree and get city permits before you trim trees that go across both properties. Work on shared trees must be approved by the city according to the code of ordinances. No trimming should start until a permit has been obtained and may be issued for the specific work planned.