Setback Tree Planting Process

Step 1: Resident requests setback tree planting 

City of Framingham resident requests a setback tree planting.

Step 2: Tree Selection and Planting Location

With input from the property owner and review by the Tree Warden and/or her DPW Highway designee a tree species and planting location is selected and confirmed.

Step 3: Indemnification Agreement and Written Permission

After a determination has been made by the Tree Warden and/or  her DPW Highway designee and the resident has agreed to the type and location of the tree the resident must sign an “Agreement and Release Form”. Massachusetts General Law Chapter 87 requires prior written permission for setback tree plantings.

Step 4: Tree Planting

The City will source and plant the tree as selected. The tree will be planted in accordance with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) A300 standards and Massachusetts General Law Chapter 87. 

Step 5: Tree Establishment Period

If the tree dies within one year of planting due to no fault of the resident determined by the Tree Warden or her designee, the City shall assume the cost of removing the tree. The owner shall give due notice to the Tree Warden no more than 60 days after the one-year anniversary of the planting if the owner believes the tree has died.

Step 6: Setback Agreement

By entering into this program, the property owner agrees to be responsible for the maintenance of the tree, including but not limited to: a. regular watering of the tree; b. pruning the tree if necessary; c. assuming all costs for the maintenance of the tree; and d. further agrees not to cut down said tree without the prior written approval of the Tree Warden in accordance with Massachusetts law.