Township committee amends tree-protection ordinance to make each unlawful removal a separate violation with up to $2,000 penalty
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Summary
The Township Committee introduced ordinance O1-25 (tree ordinance) as amended to make each unlawful tree removal a separate offense carrying penalties under the general penalty provision (section 1-3). Committee discussion noted enforcement capacity and possible future changes including invasive-species guidance and creation of a shade-tree body.
The Township Committee on Jan. 22 introduced ordinance O1-25 to amend the municipal tree code and approved an amendment to make each unlawful tree removal a separate violation subject to penalty under the township's general penalty provision.
Township Attorney Jared Kanter read the amendment language into the record, stating: "Each unlawful tree removal will constitute a separate and apart violation under this ordinance subject to the general penalty provisions pursuant to section 1-3." Committee members voted by roll call to adopt the amendment and to introduce the ordinance as amended.
Why it matters: Committee members said the amendment increases deterrence against clear-cutting by creating per-tree penalties; one committee member explained that a flat fine for a parcel may not deter large-scale, unlawful removals. The amendment sets enforcement under existing penalty authority; the transcript cites $2,000 as an illustrative penalty level discussed during debate.
Discussion and constraints: Committee members debated alternate approaches, including a percentage-based standard (which would measure tree removal relative to lot canopy) and creation of a shade-tree commission or hiring an arborist to verify compliance. Several members said a percentage standard would require additional staffing and recurring budget increases, which the township currently cannot support. Committee member comments noted past street-tree plantings (about 500 trees in recent years) and emphasized the Environmental Commission's work on the ordinance.
Next steps and hearings: The ordinance was introduced as amended and the committee set a public hearing and final consideration for Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025, at 7 p.m. Committee members said they would revisit related issues — invasive-species guidance, a shade-tree commission or an arborist review — in future meetings.
Ending: The committee approved the amendment and introduced O1-25 as amended on Jan. 22; final adoption will require a later public hearing and a roll-call vote on Feb. 19.