GREENFIELD, MA (FRANKLIN COUNTY NOW) — The City of Greenfield has announced a new, streamlined Hazard Tree Removal Policy to aide residents in the management of dangerous trees on their property. Reducing “red tape” and lengthy process, the new policy has a single simplified application that no longer includes formal applications with the city and state or the minimum two week waiting period for application review. 

From the City of Greenfield:

City of Greenfield Announces Streamlined Hazard Tree Removal Policy
GREENFIELD, MA — The City of Greenfield is pleased to announce the implementation of a new, streamlined
Hazard Tree Removal Policy, designed to make it easier and faster for residents to manage dangerous trees on
their property. Effective immediately, the policy replaces a multi-step bureaucratic process with a single,
simplified application, prioritizing public safety and reducing administrative “red tape” for homeowners.
The updated policy represents a significant shift in how the City handles trees located within jurisdictional
wetland resource areas or buffer zones. Previously, residents facing the threat of a falling or diseased tree were
required to navigate a time-consuming process. The previous process included filing formal applications with
both the City and State, paying for and posting a notice in the local newspaper, and waiting a minimum of two
weeks before the application could be reviewed.
“Our goal with this new policy is to bring common sense back to the process,” said Mayor Virginia Desorgher.
“We want to ensure that our regulations protect our natural resources without becoming a burden to the people
who live here. This policy change ensures that if a tree poses a genuine risk, it can be dealt with promptly and
safely.”
Residents who believe they have a hazardous tree in a jurisdictional area are encouraged to review the new policy
and download the application at the links below:
• Hazard Tree Removal Policy: Click here to view the policy
• Hazard Tree Removal Application: Click here to download the application
For more information, please contact the Conservation Commission office at (413) 772-1548 or visit the
Conservation Commission page on the City of Greenfield website.
##