Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission meets monthly on the fourth Thursday of every month at 7:30pm.

The Chatham Borough Shade Tree Commission was established in 1909. The Shade Tree Commission’s responsibilities include planting and maintaining trees along Borough streets, public rights-of ways, and municipal open spaces.

It is the goal of the Shade Tree Commission to create and maintain optimum tree cover and species diversity, while keeping up a pruning and removal program that will keep our streets and parks safe.

The Shade Tree Commission doesn’t just plant new trees – we take care of our existing trees too, and sometimes that means removing a tree that is diseased or considered a hazard. Maybe you’ve seen a tree being taken down on your street or in your neighborhood, or want to know why some trees are being pruned. Or maybe you have a suggestion of where you’d like to see us plant more trees! Email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  with your questions.

Tree Protection Ordinance

Chatham Borough has a Tree Protection and Preservation Ordinance, which extends to trees on private property. A permit is required to cut down any tree over 6 inches in diameter: permits may be obtained from our website or at Borough Hall. Tree Removal Permits must becompleted before any trees are removed in the Borough.

The preservation, maintenance, protection and planting of trees aids in the stabilization of soil by the prevention of erosion and sedimentation; reduces storm water runoff and the potential damage it may create; aids in the removal of pollutants from the air and assists in the generation of oxygen; provides a buffer and screen against noise and pollution; provides protection against severe weather, aids in the control of drainage and restoration of denuded soil subsequent to construction or grading; provides a habitat for birds and other wildlife and otherwise enhances the environment; protects and increases property values; preserves and enhances the Borough’s physical and aesthetic appearance, and generally promotes the public health and welfare. The regulations contained herein are designed to maintain such beneficial impacts while not interfering with the right of the Borough property owner appropriately to preserve, protect and remove trees.

 Tree City, U.S.A.

Chatham Borough has been designated a Tree City USA community since May 2001. This designation is earned by communities across our nation that have enacted a tree ordinance, established Shade Tree Commission that follows a comprehensive urban forestry program, and promotes the awareness of the value and importance of tree with an annual Arbor Day celebration.