By Lea Kahn, Staff Writer
PLAINSBORO — Aiming to prevent trees from being cut down indiscriminately, Township Committee approved an ordinance last week that requires property owners to seek a permit and explain why a tree needs to be removed.
The newly adopted ordinance applies to “significant trees,” which is defined as deciduous trees (those that lose their leaves) that could reach a mature height of 50 feet, and evergreen trees that could reach a height of more than 30 feet but that are not considered ornamental.
“The intent is to save significant trees,” Mayor Peter Cantu said.
Healthy trees aid in controlling soil erosion and cleansing the air of pollutants. Tree also help in absorbing storm water, according to the ordinance. The goal of the ordinance is to “preserve the environment and health benefits” provided by maintaining the trees.
Under the ordinance, a property owner who wants to cut down a significant tree has to apply for a permit and pay a $15 fee. The application includes the property owner’s name and address, and the address of the property where the tree is contemplated to be removed. The location of the tree on the property also must be shown.
The applicant must indicate the reason for requesting permission to cut down the tree — because it is dead or dying, diseased, or because it is causing a hazard to the house, outbuilding, sidewalk or driveway. It may also be removed to allow other beneficial trees to flourish or be planted.
However, no permit is needed if the property owner wants to remove a tree or perform work on a tree that is not considered significant. No permit is needed if the owner is removing limbs that pose a threat or risk to the general health, or who wants to prune or time a tree to enhance its growth,
Township officials have 30 business days to review the completed application, according to the ordinance. The township may ask for an additional 14 business days to review all new and additional information, before making a decision.
If the application is denied, the property owner may appeal it to the Township Administrator within 10 business days of receiving the decision. The Township Administrator has 30 days to hear the matter after the appeal is filed, and either uphold, reverse or modify the decision.
Violating the ordinance will result in a $500 fine or three times the cost of a replacement tree of the same species and size as the one that was removed — “whichever is greater,” according to the ordinance.
