Can I remove trees on my private property?
Activities that require a tree removal permit from the Village Engineer:

1) The removal of 3 or more trees exceeding 6 inches DBH (diameter of a tree trunk measured at 54 inches above the ground) per lot per 12 month period.

2) Trees identified to be removed or protected as a result of a Land Use Board determination.

3) Removal of replacement trees 6 inches or less DBH that are planted as a result of a Land Use Board determination or pursuant to Section 281-10.

4) Removal of tree(s) determined to be preserved by a Land Use Board for at least 2 growing seasons after the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy or Land Use Board approval.

Also, the removal of any of the following species of trees requires a permit from the Village Engineer:

1) American Elm

2) American Beech Tree

3) Heritage Trees (a tree designated by the Board of Architectural Review to be unique and of importance of the community)

4) Any tree in a wetland or wetland buffer area - in accordance with Chapter 171 - Freshwater Wetlands of the Scarsdale Village Code.

A resident may remove a tree(s) on private property as-of-right provided any of the following:

1) Trees 6 inches DBH or less can be removed with no restrictions.

2) Removal of up to 2 trees exceeding 6 inches DBH per lot per 12 month period. A tree removed that is 36 inches DBH or greater must be replaced with a replacement tree.

A tree may be removed under an actual or ongoing emergency for the protection of life or property. If a tree is determined by a Tree Expert to be dead, dying, hazardous or diseased, a report from the Tree Expert must be submitted to the Village Engineer. A tree may also be removed if considered an invasive species (a non-native species that adversely affects the habitats they invade economically, environmentally or ecologically and are listed in the Invasive Plant Atlas of New England (IPANE)).

For further reference or clarification, please see Chapter 281 - Trees, Grass, Brush and Weeds of the Scarsdale Village Code. Access to the Code is available on-line.

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1. What is the Village policy with regard to shade tree maintenance?
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3. Can I remove trees on my private property?
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5. How do I know where my property begins?