Tree Removal Permit
Purpose
In accordance with Huntington Town Code, Chapter 186, Tree Preservation and Protection, it shall be unlawful for any person or business entity to cause, permit or allow the removal, destruction, or substantial alteration of any Landmark Tree, Large Tree, Medium Tree or more than three (3) Small Trees or Woodland, within a one (1) year period, without first obtaining a permit from the Department of Planning and Environment.
The Tree Removal application fee is $25.00 for every five (5) trees, or portion thereof. The acceptable form of payment is personal or certified check made payable to the Town of Huntington, cash (only up to $25.00) or credit.
Listing files in 'Tree Removal Permit'
FAQ’s
What if my neighbor’s tree falls on my property?
The majority of time it is the responsibility of the property owner onto which the tree fell, to remove and repair any damage caused by the tree falling. However, if the property owner from where the tree came was properly notified that the tree posed a hazard, then the owner of the fallen tree may be responsible.
When is a Tree Removal Permit required?
If the tree is located on private property, then a Tree Removal Permit may be required from the Department of Planning and Environment prior to removing the tree. It shall be unlawful for any person or business entity to cause, permit or allow the removal, destruction, or substantial alteration of any Landmark Tree, Large Tree, Medium Tree or more than three (3) Small Trees or Woodland, within a one (1) year period, without first obtaining a permit from the Department of Planning and Environment.
If it is a Town tree, please contact the Highway Department at their Hotline (631) 499-0444, during the Hotline business hours, Monday to Friday, 7:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Are there any exemptions for requiring a tree permit?
Please refer to Huntington Town Code, Chapter 186-8 (B) Exemptions.
What are the definitions of Landmark Tree, Large Tree, Medium Tree, Small Tree and Woodland?
Landmark Tree- Any tree that is defined as rare or endangered according to the Town of Huntington, or any other local, state, federal agency having jurisdiction; or any large or outstanding specimen of small species; or tree included in New York State’s “Big Tree List”; or any tree or shrub that has been previously designated by the Town of Huntington or other agency as historic landmark; or any tree that has been designated a New York State Champion or United States Champion by the American Forestry Association.
Large Tree- Any tree that is one hundred and thirteen (113) inches in circumference, or greater, measured at a height of four and one half (4 1/2) feet from the ground.
Medium Tree- Any tree which is thirty-two (32) inches or greater in circumference measured at a height of four and one-half (4 1/2) feet above grade that has not grown to the size of a Large Tree.
Small Tree- Any tree that is less than thirty-two (32) inches in circumference measured at a height of four and one-half (4 1/2) feet above grade.
Woodland – A group of trees of any size forming a common canopy and including any under-story vegetation.
What are the definitions of substantially alter, dead or dying tree, and hazardous?
Substantially Alter- Any cutting or pruning in excess of the normal and customary cutting and pruning necessary to preserve the health of the tree or maintain its ornamental characteristics, as determined by the Town.
Dead or Dying Tree- A tree that is dead or has been damaged beyond repair, or is in an advanced state of decline, as determined by an official of the Town or an arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). This determination may require documentation via either resistograph readings or photographs.
Hazardous Tree- A tree that has a condition, disease or defect that poses an imminent danger to life or property as determined by the Town, an ISA Certified Arborist, or emergency service worker such as a police officer or fireman.
How long is a Tree Removal Permit valid?
The approved Tree Removal Permit is valid for one (1) year from the date issued. All work must be completed within this time period.
What is the fee if a tree has been removed without a valid permit?
If the removal, destruction or alteration of any trees/woodland has commenced or is completed before a permit is issued, the fee is three (3) times the normal amount.