As a homeowner or property owner in Jackson, NJ, it's important to understand the importance of trees and the regulations in place to protect them. Trees provide numerous benefits, including improving air quality, supporting local ecosystems, and adding aesthetic value to the landscape. However, tree removal is sometimes necessary for various reasons such as safety concerns, construction projects, or to address disease or infestation. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the regulations and best practices surrounding tree removal in Jackson, NJ, including the Township of Jackson's Tree Ordinances (§ 405-1 & § 405-2).

Understanding the Importance of Trees in Jackson, NJ

The Township of Jackson recognizes the importance of trees as an essential cultural, ecological, scenic, and economic resource (§ 405-1C). Their removal, if not properly managed, can lead to numerous negative impacts, such as increased drainage control costs, soil erosion, sedimentation, degradation of water resources, and a decrease in groundwater recharge (§ 405-1A). Furthermore, tree removal can contribute to increased air pollution, the establishment of a heat island effect, and a decrease in property values (§ 405-1A).

As such, it's crucial to follow the proper guidelines and regulations when removing trees in Jackson, NJ. This not only ensures the preservation of the local environment but also aligns with the state-approved community forestry management plan, as outlined in P.L. 1996, c. 135 (§ 405-1B).

Regulations and Best Practices for Tree Removal in Jackson, NJ

To help preserve and protect the tree population in Jackson, NJ, the Township has established specific regulations and best practices that should be followed. These include:

Adherence to the American National Standard, ANSI A300 (Part 5) – Management (§ 405-1B(1)).

Following the guidelines in "Trees and Development: A Technical Guide to Preservation of Trees During Land Development" by Nelda Matheny and James R. Clark (§ 405-1B(2)).

Compliance with "Protection and Care of the Urban Forest" by the NJDEP Division of Parks and Forestry (§ 405-1B(3)).

In addition to these guidelines, the Township of Jackson's Tree Ordinances (§ 405-1 & § 405-2) stipulate that tree removal should be conducted in accordance with the provisions outlined within the chapter. This includes seeking approval from the Shade Tree Commission of Jackson Township and its agents, such as the Tree Specialist, before removing any trees covered by the chapter (§ 405-1D).

Proper Measurement of Trees

To ensure that tree removal is conducted according to the regulations, it's essential to understand how trees are measured. According to the Township of Jackson's Tree Ordinances (§ 405-2), the "caliper" is the standard measurement used in the nursery industry to determine the diameter of a tree trunk. This measurement should be taken six inches above the top of the root flare for trees with a caliper size up to and including four inches. If the caliper size exceeds four inches, the measurement should be taken 12 inches above the root flare (§ 405-2).

Tree Removal Permit Process in Jackson, NJ

Obtaining a Tree Removal Permit

As outlined in the Township of Jackson's Tree Ordinances, property owners who wish to remove a tree must first obtain a tree removal permit (§ 405-4A). To do so, they must make an application to the Shade Tree Commission by filing a written application with the Tree Specialist and paying the required fees as set forth in § 405-8. The permit will not be issued until a tree preservation and removal plan has been reviewed and approved as compliant with § 405-5 by the Tree Specialist (§ 405-4A).

Review and Inspection

Once the application has been submitted, the Tree Specialist will review the tree save plan (if necessary) and conduct an on-site inspection (§ 405-4B & § 405-4E). No building permit will be issued for any construction projects until the tree removal permit has been granted (§ 405-4B). Furthermore, all required escrow and bond fees must be paid before the tree removal permit is issued (§ 405-4C).

Submitting the Application

The tree removal permit application should be filed at the Tree Specialist's office and completed in full (§ 405-4D). The application must be deemed complete, and all required fees, as set forth in § 405-8, must be paid before the review process begins (§ 405-4D).

Tree Specialist's Decision

After completing the inspection, the Tree Specialist will either approve or deny the tree removal permit within 10 business days (§ 405-4F). If the permit is denied, the Tree Specialist will notify the applicant in writing, providing the factual basis and criteria for the denial (§ 405-4F). If the applicant disagrees with the Tree Specialist's decision, they can appeal to the governing body by filing a written notice within 10 days of the final decision (§ 405-4F). The governing body will then hold a public hearing and issue its decision within 60 days after the notice of appeal is filed, unless the applicant requests and the governing body consents to an extension of time (§ 405-4F). The governing body may delegate its appeal responsibilities to the Shade Tree Commission (§ 405-4F).

Application and Fees

When filing the tree removal permit application with the Tree Specialist, applicants must pay a $10 application fee for each new or existing lot (§ 405-8A(1)). Applications will not be considered without the required fees. Additionally, a $25 inspection fee will be applied to all applications requiring on-site verification (§ 405-8A(1)).

Tree Replacement Fees and Escrow Fund

The replacement fee will be determined in accordance with § 405-9 (§ 405-8A(2)). A Tree Escrow Fund will be established and maintained by the Chief Financial Officer of Jackson Township to receive and disburse replacement tree contributions (§ 405-8B(1)). Appropriations from the Tree Fund will be authorized by the governing body, with consideration of the Shade Tree Commission's recommendation, in accordance with the municipal tree planting plan (§ 405-8B(1)). The primary purpose of the fund is to provide for planting and maintenance of trees and shrubs on public property, as well as covering administrative costs to implement the provisions of this chapter, which should not exceed 30% of the fund annually (§ 405-8B(2)).

Tree Replacement Schedule

Any tree removed under this chapter, unless exempt under § 405-3C, must be replaced according to the schedule outlined in § 405-9A(1). In cases where the tree cost requirement criteria is combined with other criteria, the value of proposed shade, ornamental, evergreen, and shrub material will be deducted from the calculated amount for replacement trees (§ 405-9A(2)). The value of the proposed landscape material will be calculated based on average local material costs for planting. Applicants can receive a one-for-one replacement tree credit if they preserve stands of 10 or more trees greater than four inches in diameter within the limit of the disturbance line (§ 405-9B). Replacement trees must be planted on site, but under certain conditions, some or all of the trees may be planted off site (§ 405-9C). In commercial and industrial applications, the tree replacement fee will be $25 per tree, with a maximum amount of $2,500 per acre (§ 405-9D). Specimen and historic trees will be assessed a separate fee according to the schedule in § 405-9A.

Protection of Existing Trees During Construction

To protect existing trees during construction, suitable tree protective barriers must be erected prior to any construction or tree removals and remain until authorized to be removed by the Tree Specialist or after issuance of a final certificate of occupancy (§ 405-10A(1)). Protective barriers should be a minimum of four feet high and placed at the tree's dripline (§ 405-10A(2)&(3)). It is unlawful to place solvents, materials, construction machinery, or temporary soil deposits within the dripline (§ 405-10A(4)). Street right-of-way and utility easements should be delineated as described in § 405-10B, and large property areas separate from construction and land clearing areas should be delineated as determined by the Tree Specialist following a field evaluation (§ 405-10C).

In conclusion, Tree Ya Later is committed to providing exceptional tree removal and tree trimming services to residents and property owners in Jackson, New Jersey, and Ocean County, New Jersey. Adhering to Jackson Township's Tree Ordinances is essential to maintaining a healthy, vibrant community while preserving the ecological balance and property values in the area.

By obtaining the necessary tree removal permits and working closely with the Tree Specialist, Tree Ya Later ensures that the tree removal and tree trimming processes are carried out in compliance with the regulations set forth by Jackson Township. Our company understands the importance of protecting existing trees during construction and adhering to tree replacement schedules to maintain the aesthetic and environmental benefits that trees provide to our community.

As a responsible and dedicated service provider in Jackson, New Jersey, and Ocean County, New Jersey, Tree Ya Later is committed to upholding these regulations and working closely with clients to ensure that tree removal and tree trimming projects align with local requirements. By doing so, we are playing an essential role in preserving the health, safety, and general welfare of the residents of Jackson Township.

We, at Tree Ya Later, believe in delivering high-quality tree services while respecting and protecting the environment. We strive to build strong relationships with our clients and the community, contributing to the sustainable management of Jackson Township's tree resources and ensuring the continued health and growth of