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Tivoli has a well-earned reputation as a bucolic village with walkable streets and strong connections to the Hudson River and the surrounding hills. According to their own Local Waterfront Revitalization Program’s founding document, trees are a major part of the historic fabric of the community.

“The Village can… provide street amenities that will improve the appearance of the community. Planting new trees and caring for older trees is an example of such activity.”

The document mourns the loss of the great elm trees that “once lined the community’s streets.”

Tivol is also known for providing first 60 legendary crabapple trees that once filled the Central Park Conservancy Garden. Some of the original trees are still believed to alive in the park.

In 2023, the Village of Tivoli Tree Committee undertook a tree inventory of the public trees that now line its public property. The elms of yesteryear have been replaced with the following trees, which we’ve tallied up from their report along with a synopsis of common things to look out for with each species.

1. Callery Pear (Pyrus calleryana) – 17 Trees

Callery pears are known for fast growth, early spring flowers, and a high tolerance for compacted soils in busy areas. They can be prone to a weak branch structure, so pruning every 2-3 years is critical. They are especially weak with heavy snow or ice storms.

2. Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum) – 10 Trees

Sugar maples are iconic native Hudson Valley trees that provide beautiful colors in the fall. They can be sensitive to salt and drought. It’s great to water them deeply in dry summers between July and August. They need a minimal amount of pruning to remove deadwood.

3. Katsura (Cercidiphyllum) – 5 Trees

Katsura are known for their heart-shaped leaves and spectacular fall colors. They love moisture, so like the sugar maple, they do well with summer waterings. They also prefer partial sun instead of a blasting full afternoon sun. They can respond well to some light winter pruning. These are great for shady village streets.

4. Redbud (Cercis canadensis) – 5 Trees

The eastern redbud is known for early magenta flowers and are beloved by pollinators. They can have shorter lifespan than larger trees. It’s important to water them regularly for their first two or three years, and to remove crossing or crowded branches early on.

5. Serviceberry (Amelanchier) – 5 Trees

The serviceberry features spring flowers, edible berries, and are a magnet for wildlife, which can be good or bad. They like occasional pruning to improve air circulation.

6. Dogwood Spp. (Cornus) – 4 Trees

Dogwoods are known for their classic spring flowers and layered branches. They can be sensitive to stress and disease, so make sure to water them during droughts. They really could use a shady, calmer side street.

Do you need help with your trees in Tivoli, NY? At Expert Tree Service, we’re here to help you extend the life of your tree with trimming and maintenance services, or if it’s time, we can safely remove your tree without leaving a trace on your property. Give us a call at 845-331-6782 to get started.

1. When did New Yorkers want tree removal the most?

Interest in tree removal in New York State peaked in July 2025 due to a cluster of severe storms that hit the entire state, paired with extreme heat waves. The heat stressed many already-weakened trees, while the storms caused a massive amount of fallen trees and utility poles, mainly in Central New York.

https://trends.google.com/trends/explore?date=today%205-y&geo=US-NY&q=%2Fg%2F11h_cmwxzx

2. What does tree removal cost?

Searches around “cost tree removal,” “cost of tree removal,” “average tree removal price” and more are some of the most common searches on the list. Every job is different: factors such as tree height, species, health, distance to the house or power lines, equipment needs (like cranes or bucket trucks), permits, and cleanup all affect final price.

A 50‑foot oak leaning over power lines, for example, may require crane-assisted removal, traffic control, and extensive debris handling, while a 20‑foot pine in an open yard can often be handled with smaller crews and equipment. That is why reputable companies avoid one-size-fits-all pricing and instead quote each job individually based on risk, access, and the homeowner’s goals.

3. Tree removal urgency

“Emergency tree removal” appears prominently in both top and rising Google queries, showing that many searches happen right after storms or when a tree suddenly looks unsafe. Homeowners are often reacting to fallen limbs on roofs, trees tangled in power lines, blocked driveways, or trees that start to lean or crack after high winds and heat stress.

This urgency also explains why searches spike in tight windows around major weather events: people are not casually researching; they are trying to solve a dangerous problem as quickly as possible.

4. Tree types

Google Trends data shows meaningful interest in both “large tree removal” and “small tree removal,” along with related entities like “tree stump” and “crane.” That suggests homeowners already understand that big, complex trees and small ornamental trees are different jobs with different risks and costs.​

It reinforces the idea that tailored pricing protects customers from overpaying for smaller jobs while ensuring serious hazards are handled with the right equipment

5. “Tree removal near me”

Queries like “tree removal near me,” “tree service near me,” “kingston tree removal,” “tree removal ulster county,” and “tree removal rhinebeck” show strong local intent. People want someone nearby who understands local ordinances, permitting rules, and how regional weather and soil conditions affect different tree species.

Working with local, family-owned businesses like ours is always a safe bet. Our family has been cutting down trees in the Ulster/Greene/Columbia/Dutchess County area since 1936, and we’re deeply familiar with the different kinds of trees, permits needed, and how to evaluate the health of local trees.

Managing trees on commercial property is a critical responsibility that extends far beyond aesthetics. For business owners in Ulster County and Dutchess County, New York, understanding tree removal requirements, regulations, and best practices can protect your investment, ensure safety, and keep your business compliant with local ordinances. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about commercial tree removal in the Hudson Valley region.

Understanding Local Regulations and Permit Requirements

Ulster County Municipalities

Tree removal regulations vary significantly by municipality throughout Ulster County. In Kingston, the largest city in the county, recent changes have made compliance more important than ever. As of February 2024, the City of Kingston increased fines for cutting down city-owned trees from $250 to $1,250. Trees located between the street and sidewalk are typically city-owned property, and removal requires authorization from the City Tree Commission. It’s certainly worth double-checking if you’re not sure.

Kingston’s draft Tree Preservation Ordinance requires Tree Maintenance/Removal Permits for work on Protected Trees within public rights of way and on public property. The ordinance establishes specific criteria for permit approval, including whether the tree poses a hazard, causes property damage, or affects public health and safety. It hasn’t been passed into law, and we cannot speculate if or when that will happen, but it may in 2026.

In New Paltz, regulations distinguish between village and town jurisdictions. Village shade trees, those located on public or private property within 20 feet from the edge of the curb or road pavement, cannot be removed without approval from the Shade Tree Commission. In the Town of New Paltz, trees seven feet tall or taller within 55 feet of the roadway center require a complete written application to the Town Building Inspector.

Other Ulster County communities like Saugerties have similar protections for public trees and trees within rights-of-way, typically requiring permission from the Village Clerk before any pruning or removal.

Dutchess County Municipalities

Dutchess County communities also maintain strict tree protection ordinances. In the Town of Poughkeepsie, no tree regulated under the local chapter can be cut or removed without first obtaining a tree removal permit. The town has established a detailed tree replacement schedule based on the diameter at breast height (DBH) of the removed tree, requiring multiple replacement trees for larger specimens.

Throughout both counties, working with street trees or trees near utilities requires coordination with multiple agencies and proper permitting from local departments of parks, public works, or planning.

Why Businesses Need Tree Removal Services

Safety and Liability

Commercial properties experience higher foot and vehicle traffic than residential properties, making tree safety a paramount concern. Weak, dying, or structurally compromised trees can drop branches or fall entirely, potentially causing serious injuries or death to employees, customers, or visitors. A single accident can result in costly lawsuits, workers’ compensation claims, and increased insurance premiums.

Trees near parking lots, walkways, buildings, or roadways present particularly high liability risks. Dead or diseased trees are unpredictable and pose ongoing threats until properly removed.

Infrastructure Protection

Tree roots can cause extensive damage to sidewalks, parking lots, building foundations, and underground utilities including sewer, gas, and electric lines. Untrimmed branches can interfere with power lines, signage, and buildings, creating both safety hazards and operational disruptions.

For businesses, this infrastructure damage can interrupt daily operations, inconvenience tenants and customers, and result in expensive emergency repairs.

Property Value and Aesthetics

Well-maintained trees enhance curb appeal and property values, creating welcoming environments for customers and employees. Conversely, dead, diseased, or overgrown trees detract from professional appearances and can signal neglect to potential customers.

Construction and Development

Ongoing construction around trees causes both immediate and long-term damage. If 50% of a tree’s root system becomes damaged during construction, immediate removal is typically necessary. Trees growing under power lines may need removal if they exceed 25 feet, as they pose considerable threats during storms.

Insurance and Liability Protection

Commercial tree service requires specialized insurance coverage that differs significantly from standard business policies. General liability insurance for tree service businesses operates in the excess and surplus lines market, which specializes in high-risk operations.

What Insurance Should Your Tree Company Have?

When hiring tree service companies for a commercial job, verify they carry:

• General Liability Insurance: Covers property damage and third-party bodily injury. For example, if a branch damages a neighboring building during removal, this policy covers repair costs and legal expenses.​
• Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Required by New York law for businesses employing personnel. This protects your business if workers are injured during tree removal operations.​
• Commercial Auto Insurance: Personal auto policies don’t cover vehicles used for business purposes. Commercial auto insurance covers accidents involving work trucks, trailers, and specialized equipment.
• Umbrella Liability Insurance: Provides additional coverage beyond general liability limits for large-scale contracts or valuable commercial properties.

Many homeowners and commercial property managers will not hire tree services without proof of insurance. Legitimate tree service companies in New York should readily provide certificates of insurance documenting adequate coverage.

Cost Considerations

Tree removal costs vary significantly based on multiple factors. Understanding these variables helps businesses budget appropriately and avoid unexpected expenses.

Factors Influencing Commercial Tree Removal Costs

Several variables affect final pricing:

• Tree size and species: Larger trees require more equipment, time, and labor
• Location and accessibility: Trees near buildings, power lines, or structures require specialized techniques and safety precautions, increasing costs
• Tree condition: Diseased or dead trees may be more dangerous and unpredictable to remove
• Terrain: Difficult terrain or remote locations add equipment transport charges
• Additional services: Stump grinding ($100-$350 per stump), debris removal, and site cleanup add to total costs
• Permit fees: Municipal permit fees may apply
• Emergency removal: The timing and urgency of the removal may affect the final price quote

What Makes Commercial Tree Removal Complicated

Commercial tree removal involves complexities that exceed typical residential jobs, such as more complex locations that require crane-assisted removals and complex rigging, tighter deadlines to accommodate customer hours and traffic, higher liability, and multiple stakeholders like tenants, contractors and utility comparnies.

How We Approach Tree Removal for Commercial Clients

Our comprehensive commercial tree removal service typically includes:

1. Site visit and assessment: An arborist evaluates tree condition, removal complexity, hazards, and develops a strategy
2. Detailed proposal: Written scope of work, cost breakdown, and scheduling options
3. Stakeholder coordination: Communication with facility managers, tenants, contractors, and utility companies
4. Permit acquisition: Managing applications and approval processes with local municipalities
5. Safe removal: Following ANSI Z133 safety protocols with controlled work zones, signage, and barriers
6. Cleanup and restoration: Complete debris removal and site preparation for any replanting or landscaping

Protecting Your Business Investment

Tree removal is a strategic business decision that affects safety, liability, property value, and regulatory compliance. For businesses in Ulster County and Dutchess County, understanding local regulations, working with properly insured professionals, and timing projects appropriately can save money while protecting your most important assets: your employees, customers, and property.

Before removing any trees on your commercial property, consult with local planning departments to verify permit requirements, work with certified arborists to assess tree health and removal necessity, and always verify contractor insurance and credentials. With proper planning and professional guidance, tree removal can enhance your property’s safety, appearance, and long-term value while keeping your business in full compliance with Hudson Valley regulations.

Give Expert Tree Service a call at 845-331-6782 or contact us to book your tree removal consultation today.

In the Hudson Valley, we love our trees, which makes the decision to remove a tree difficult sometimes. It’s an easy decision if a tree is clearly diseased or dying, and constitutes a risk to human life and property.

But what if your tree is healthy? It’s possible that if your tree is too close to your house that it is causing moisture issues that can threaten the foundation of your house. This is especially true in the Hudson Valley, which has an older housing stock than most regions and has a lot of rainfall; preserving too much moisture next to your house can cause long-term issues.

Looking to trim or remove a tree that’s close to your house? Give Expert Tree Service a call at (845) 331-6782 to schedule a consultation..

The Hudson Valley’s Soil Characteristics by Town

The first consideration about trees, moisture and proximity to your home is soil.

In Kingston, for example, there is a mix of moderately well-draining soil like loams in upland areas, and poorly draining silt or clay soils in flat areas. In Poughkeepsie, there’s generally good drainage due to a mix of loam and silt loam.

In Saugerties and Catskill, the eastern lowlands have heavy, silty and clayey soils with slow drainage, while higher ground has loams with moderate drainage.

If your soil doesn’t drain well, it means that a tree could block out the sun and prevent it from drying out, which could pose long-term issues for your home.

The Hudson Valley’s Housing Stock by Town

The housing stock in all four communities that we’re focusing on is considerably old, with a large share built before 1960.

The Hudson Valley’s Rain Totals and Freeze-Thaw Cycles

The Hudson Valley has a humid climate with precipitation throughout the year. In recent years, we’ve had as little as 33 inches of rain (2020) and as much as 50 inches of rain (2023).

Rain, combined with poorly draining soil and a tree close to your home, can amplify the importance of freeze-thaw cycles which can cause frost wedging in masonry as water freezes, expands, and then thaws.

In recent years, we’ve averaged around 110 freeze-thaw days a year.

How Close is too Close for Trees?

With all of this in mind, it’s recommended that trees should be the following distances from your home:

• Small Trees (under 30 foot tall) – 10-15 feet away
• Medium Trees (30 to 70 foot tall) – 15- 20 feet away
• Large Trees (70+ foot tall) – 20 -40 feet away at minimum

These distances will help prevent moisture and structural problems. Large tree roots seek water and can exploit foundation cracks or plumbing if planted too close. Overhanging limbs can drop excessive water near the foundation and abrade the roof in wind. By following the above spacing, homeowners can enjoy shade benefits while minimizing risk. It’s also wise to avoid planting directly over septic fields or too near sidewalks/driveways (to prevent uplift from roots).

Soil quality and drainage also matter: in wet soils, roots may stay shallow and spread farther laterally.

When It Makes Sense to Remove a Tree Proactively

Based on everything we’ve covered, here’s our conclusion about when you should consider removing a tree proactively:

• When it’s too close to your home the roots may cause damage and the canopy may trap moisture (depending on the tree size)
• If soil around the foundation is damp or heaving – if you see moss, algae or puddling around the perimeter, mud that never dries, cracks or shifts in basement walls, or visible roots in foundation cracks.
• If it’s a high risk species – some species are inherently problematic near foundations. Silver maples, willows, poplar all have aggressive roots. Softwoods like spruce or fir have shallow roots and dense shade. Large oaks have huge canopies and root systems.
• If the tree is leaning or the soil has shifted.

Bottom line: if a tree is close, downhill, deep-shading, or on wet clay soil, removal is usually the smart long-term move, especially near older homes. Once it’s gone, you can replant smarter: farther out, with smaller native trees that are less aggressive and better adapted to our region.

One of the biggest pressures about tree removal decisions in the Hudson Valley is the feeling of responsibility to your community.

Trees are important to communities. Many of our local towns and cities are certified as Tree Cities, meaning that they keep track of their trees and are actively trying to increase the number of trees that can be responsibly planted.

But if you are not thrilled with your tree, whether its placement, its species, its threat to hurting people or damaging property, its vulnerability to invasives, or other factors, you may be hesitant to cut it down out of a sense of duty.

But if you replace it with a tree that you’re thrilled with, and place it in safely in the exact place that it belongs, then you’re doing a great service to your community.

And generally in the Hudson Valley, we are blessed to live in communities that have plenty of trees already that can pick up the slack while you replace your tree with something else.

Using American Forests’ Tree Equity Score data, we can actually rank local towns by how many trees they have per person and how much of the landscape is covered by tree canopy. That gives homeowners a clearer sense of:

• Whether their neighborhood is relatively tree-rich or tree-poor
• How much pressure trees may be putting on older homes, foundations, roofs, and septic systems
• When it might be time to remove a problem tree—and what to plant instead

This post walks through eleven Hudson Valley towns Expert Tree Service frequently works in. If you are ready get your trees removed or trimmed by some of the most trusted experts in the Hudson Valley, give us a call at 845-331-6782.

Tree Rankings: Most Trees per Person, Town by Town

Trees per person is a helpful way to compare how tree-dense different communities are. Below is a ranking from most to fewest trees per person, with overall canopy cover for each town’s urban area:

Remember: these numbers are for the urban areas in each town, not the entire town including deep forest. But they still give a solid snapshot of how tree-rich each place is.

1. La Grange

The Town of La Grange in Dutchess County leads the way with 37.1 trees per person and a very high 64% tree canopy cover of 64%.

2. Hyde Park

Hyde Park has 31.8 trees per person and a 74% tree canopy cover. According to our blog post about permits needed to cut down Hudson Valley trees, they have some guardrails in place to protect trees along right-of-ways.

3. Saugerties

In our hometown of Saugerties, we can boast that we have 25.6 trees per capita and a 57% tree cover rate. In a previous blog post, we found that tree removal laws in Saugerties are robust to help protect public trees, park trees and right of way trees.

4. Hurley

In Ulster County’s town of Hurley, there are 24.6 trees per capita and a tree cover of 59%. This is despite a recent blog post on tree injuries finding a brutal 100% fatality rate for ash trees in West Hurley due to the ash borer.

5. Town of Ulster

The Town of Ulster has 22.1 trees per capita and a tree cover rate of 48%.

6. Lloyd

The Town of Lloyd in Ulster County has 21.8 trees per capita and a high cover rate of 61%. According to a recent blog post, they have a high number of oaks, maples and birches.

7. 19th Congressional District

The 19th Congressional District, used as a stand-in for the area as a whole, has 19.3 trees per capita in urban areas and a 56% tree cover rate. These numbers represent a general baseline for the region.

8. Catskill

In the Town of Catskill in Greene County, there are 19.1 trees per capita and a cover rate of 54%. A recent blog post found that some of the most common trees in town are the Norway maple, the Bradford pear, and the Silver maple.

9. New Paltz

In the Town of New Paltz, there are 16 trees per capita and a 66% tree cover rate. According to a recent blog post, this Certified Tree City USA’s most common trees include the Norway Maple, the Sugar Maple and the Eastern Red Cedar.

10. Wawarsing (Including Ellenville)

In the Town of Wawarsing in Western Ulster County, there’s are 10.3 trees per capita with a 48% cover rate.

11. Poughkeepsie

Hudson Valley cities, with more people and less open space for trees, are understandably at the bottom of the list. Poughkeepsie is no exception, with 8.7 trees per capita and 52% tree canopy cover. Owing to its density, Poughkeepsie has some simple tree removal laws that help people remove trees before they endanger pedestrians and motorists alike.

12. Kingston

The City of Kingston has 7.6 trees per capita and 52% tree canopy cover. The tree removal laws may be changing soon, and from the last tree survey, their most common trees were Norway Maple, Thornless Honey Locust and Ornamental Pear.

Homeowners have a lot going on, and tree care usually isn’t front of mind. If a tree looks like it’s going to become a hazard, then that’s when the majority of people start thinking about tree removal services.

After removing a tree, it can take decades for a replacement tree to reach the same height, size and beauty, while providing less shade along the way.

But what if there was a better way for your trees, that could extend their life, increase the value of your property, and only remove them when it’s absolutely necessary? It’s not just knowing when to trim or maintain a tree, but also how. Every tree and property is different, but we’ll tell you all about it below.

Need help maintaining your trees in the Hudson Valley? Call us at Expert Tree Service; our number is 845-331-6782.

Winter (December – February): The Safest Time for Tree Removal

Winter is an ideal time for tree removal. The trees are dormant, the frozen soil minimizes wear and tear from equipment on your property. If your garden surrounds the tree, you won’t have to worry about branches damaging nearby plants during the work. It’s also much easier to bring in equipment when there aren’t delicate blooms in the way.

You’ll also have more time to move dormant plants that could end up getting too much sunlight once the tree is gone. And by scheduling the work in early winter, you’ll stay ahead of any major snowstorms.

Spring (March – May): Perfect for Pruning & Growth Checks

In the spring, trees and homeowners alike begin to awaken from dormancy. As people head outside into their yards, it is the perfect time for pruning and assessing your trees’ health after months of snow, wind, and ice.

Winter storms can cause invisible structural stress, cracked limbs, or weakened joints. Early spring pruning helps remove damaged branches before new growth starts, allowing the tree to channel its energy into healthy development. It’s also the best time to shape younger trees and improve airflow within mature canopies.

However, timing is key; avoid pruning early bloomers such as dogwoods or ornamental cherries until after their flowers fade, to ensure a full bloom season. As temperatures rise, keep an eye out for local pests emerging early, including gypsy moths, woolly adelgids, and aphids, which can quickly spread through weakened trees.

Summer (June – August): Light Trimming and Pest Prevention

The emphasis in the summer is on maintenance and vigilance. Your trees are in full growth mode, which means your goal should be light trimming, not major cuts. Heavy pruning during this time can stress the tree and make it vulnerable to pests and disease.

Instead, focus on thinning out small branches for better airflow, sunlight, and aesthetics, especially around walkways, roofs, or power lines. Inspect your trees regularly for signs of distress, such as wilting leaves, brown edges, or dead limbs that didn’t recover from spring growth.

Summer droughts are common in the Hudson Valley, so consistent deep watering is critical. Consider adding mulch (without piling it up into a dreaded mulch volcano) around the base of trees to retain soil moisture and prevent root damage. This is also an ideal time for tree feeding services, replenishing the nutrients that heat and dry soil can deplete.

Fall (September – November): Hazard Prep Before Winter Storms

Fall is the Hudson Valley’s final opportunity to prepare for the harsh winter ahead. As leaves drop and branches become more visible, it’s the perfect time to remove weak or diseased limbs that could snap under heavy snow or ice.

This is also the best season to schedule cabling and bracing services, especially for older or structurally compromised trees. Supporting vulnerable limbs now can prevent breakage and expensive damage later.

Finally, add a fresh layer of mulch around the base of trees to insulate roots and lock in moisture before the freeze sets in.

And remember, if winter storms do strike, Expert Tree Service offers 24/7 emergency storm response throughout Ulster, Greene, Dutchess, and Columbia counties.

When It’s Too Late to Wait

Some tree problems can’t wait for the right season. If you notice leaning trunks, hollow sounds when tapping the bark, mushrooms or fungus growing near the base, or cracking soil around roots, these could be signs of serious internal decay or instability.

Ignoring these red flags can lead to property damage or injury if the tree fails during a storm. When in doubt, give us a call at 845-331-6782.

Since March of 2025, a new City of Kingston tree removal ordinance has been moving forward, foretelling major changes in how tree removal will be regulated. While the new Tree Preservation Ordinance isn’t law yet, it’s worth understanding now, especially if you have large or aging trees on your private property.

Acting now, before the ordinance passes, may save you time, money, and headaches.

Why the City Wants This Law

The stated reasons for the proposed ordinance are:

• To promote and protect the health, safety, and general welfare of the City’s inhabitants by providing for the preservation, regulation, planting, maintenance, and removal of trees.
• To reduce city and public costs for cooling, stormwater drainage control, and small particulate matter air filtering.
• To preserve the substantial value of trees to the community as a whole.

Big Changes for Homeowners

Right now in the City of Kingston, there are penalties for removing a tree that’s on public property, such as in between the sidewalk and the street. However, the new draft tree preservation law would require a permit for removing many trees that are on your private property, and have a major impact on what you do after the removal, such as paying a fee or replacing the tree with another one.

What Are Protected Trees?

If passed, City of Kingston residents may need a city permit to remove certain trees on private property.
Protected trees would be defined by:

• Any tree of any size located on public property or in the public right-of-way.
• A single-trunk tree or a multi-stem tree with at least one stem that has a Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) of six inches or greater and is located on private property.
• A tree planted as a Replacement Tree, regardless of its size.

Possible exemptions include trees posing an immediate hazard, diseased or dying trees, or smaller ornamental species.

Tree Maintenance and Removal Permits

A Tree Maintenance/Removal Permit is required for specific actions related to Protected Trees on private property. This includes:

• The removal of a Protected Tree.
• Pruning 30% or more of the tree’s living crown in a single growing season.
• Pruning healthy, undamaged limbs that are greater than 8 inches in diameter.
• Excavating roots within the Critical Root Zone.

You will not need a permit for routine maintenance and pruning on private property. This includes removing dead or damaged limbs, pruning to correct poor form, and pruning for building clearance. However, the ordinance recommends that a Certified Arborist perform tree maintenance.

Heritage Trees

The draft ordinance identifies “Heritage Trees” as being particularly valuable. A tree is classified as a Heritage Tree if it meets any of the following criteria:

• It has a DBH of 20 inches or more.
• It is a native Oak (Quercus spp) or Hickory (Carya spp) with a DBH of 10 inches or more.
• It is a protected native plant designated by the New York State Compilation of Codes with a DBH of 3 inches or more.

Homeowners must also provide written notification to all neighboring property owners and occupants within a 100-foot radius when requesting authorization to remove a healthy Heritage Tree. This notice must be given at least 14 days before the City Tree Commission reviews the permit application.

Jointly Owned Trees

If any part of a tree’s trunk is on the boundary line between two or more properties, it is considered a “Jointly Owned Tree”. To remove such a tree, all property owners must submit a signed Jointly Owned Tree Removal Form along with the permit application.

Invasive and Exempt Species

The ordinance lists certain species as “Invasive,” and the requirement for replacement trees or fees for removal of these species is waived. However, a Tree Removal Permit is still needed for removing an invasive species on public property or in the public right-of-way.

The list of invasive species includes:

• Callery Pear (Pyrus calleryana)
• Norway Maple (Acer platanoides)
• Common Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica)
• Glossy Buckthorn (Rhamnus frangula)
• Russian Olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia)
• Tree-of-Heaven (Ailanthus altissima)
• White Mulberry (Morus alba)

Certain vegetation is on an “Exempt Species List,” which means a Tree Removal Permit is not required for them. This list includes Arborvitae (Thuja spp.), Sumac (Rhus), and Yew (Taxus spp.). The Urban Forester can also determine other woody shrubs or bushes to be exempt.

Replacement Trees

Here’s where it gets complicated:

Residents must plant a replacement tree or pay a fee to the city when a Protected Tree is removed and not replaced with a new one that meets the ordinance’s standards. This also applies if a healthy Heritage Tree is removed. The value of the removed tree is calculated using the Trunk Formula Technique, which considers the cross-sectional area of the tree and a unit tree cost . This value is called the “Basic Reproduction Cost”. The final amount is adjusted by deducting the appropriate condition percentage from the basal area. For the removal of a healthy Heritage Tree, there is an additional fee of $150 per inch based on its size.

If a tree is removed without a permit, the property owner is jointly liable with their agent and must replace the tree at 100% of its environmental value. Environmental value is determined using the iTree methodology provided by the U.S. Forest Service, the Arbor Day Foundation’s National Tree Benefit Calculator, or another approved method. The replacement tree(s) must match the environmental values (gallons of stormwater absorption and pounds of CO2 removal) of the removed tree(s) when they reach a trunk DBH of eight inches. This is not required for the removal of invasive species.

Based on the draft ordinance, replacement trees must be a species approved by the Urban Forester and referenced on the City-Approved Tree Species List. This list is separate from the ordinance and can be found on the City of Kingston’s website. Species on the Invasive or Undesirable Species Lists are not permitted as replacement trees. The ordinance recommends planting native species to promote biodiversity and support local ecosystems.

The location for replacement trees must be satisfactory to the Urban Forester, taking into account the topography and potential for stormwater runoff. The trees cannot be planted in a location that will conflict with above- or below-ground utilities, paved surfaces, or public safety. The ordinance specifies minimum distances from intersections, utility poles, and other infrastructure, as well as spacing requirements between trees of different sizes. Sources

Penalties for Violations

Unauthorized removal of a Protected Tree is defined as any action without city approval that causes the tree to die within two years of the action. The property owner and their agent are jointly liable for any violations of the ordinance. Penalties for removing a tree without a permit and without an approved replacement tree(s) of equal value shall be a fine reflecting the tree’s value.

What You Can Do Now

As of August of 2025, the bill is not law. It’s time to check and identify your aging, diseased and hazardous trees, and strategically plan removals. Doing so now could prevent extra steps, red tape and replacement costs.

We Can Help

Whether you need a health assessment, strategic removal, or just advice on which trees to keep, our team can guide you through the process now and once the ordinance is in place. Call us today at 845-331-6782 to schedule your pre-ordinance tree evaluation and take the guesswork out of your property’s future.

With New York State’s new wetland rules now in effect, many homeowners near Esopus Creek are unsure if they need permits for tree removal. It’s estimated that a couple thousand local homeowners live within a quarter mile radius of the Creek, which begins originates at Winnisook Lake on the slopes of Slide Mountain and runs for 65 miles into the Hudson River in our hometown of Saugerties.

The good news? The vast majority of tree work, especially for homeowners, near the creek requires a lengthy or expensive permit process. But the rules have changed as of January 1, 2025, and it’s worth knowing when a quick general permit applies, and when you need to do more, as fines for noncompliance can range from $5,000 to 50,000.

A New Landscape: DEC’s Expanded Wetland Rules

On January 1, 2025, the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) enacted new regulations under its Freshwater Wetlands Protection Program. These changes:

• Expanded the definition and mapping of protected wetlands and adjacent areas
• Increased DEC jurisdiction statewide by over one million acres
• Created a new general permit (GP-0-25-003) to simplify approval for routine activities, including tree removal

So yes, protections are broader. But no, that doesn’t mean you need a lawyer you want to take down a tree.

General Permit = Simpler Process

As of January 1, 2025, DEC General Permit GP-0-25-003 covers most common tree removal activities near wetlands or Esopus Creek, including:

• Removing dead, diseased, or hazardous trees
• Selective cutting of non-native species
• Invasive species management (e.g., Norway Maple)
• Routine maintenance and minor vegetation clearing

If your property qualifies, this means that there’s no lengthy application process, no permit costs and minimal delays.

When You Need More Than a General Permit

However, if any of the following apply, you may need a jurisdictional determination or individual permit:

• You’re removing trees as part of construction or development
• You’re within 100 feet of Esopus Creek and the work could disturb the streambank
• You’re in a designated wetland of unusual importance
• You’re doing large-scale clearing or altering grade, slope, or soil stability
• Your property is in a newly regulated area under the 2025 wetlands expansion and hasn’t yet been mapped

This permit is statewide and applies to many properties near Esopus Creek as long as the total disturbance is under certain thresholds (usually 1/10 of an acre for wetlands or adjacent areas).

Who is Affected?

You can check out New York State’s Environmental Resource Mapper here, which has layers that show a radius of what are considered surrounding wetlands of the Esopus Creek and other estuaries.

It’s estimated that about 2 to 10% of Ulster County’s total housing stock is within a 300-foot wetland buffer. If you’re not 100% sure of where you stand with this, you can request a Parcel Jurisdictional Determination here, which can take up to 90 days.

What Ulster County Homeowners Should Do

Ultimately, we have had a lot of experience over the years in navigating these situations with homeowners. Dealing with the bureaucracy is never certain for the uninitiated, but with our help, we can make sure that you get your trees removed or trimmed without risking a fine, and more importantly, while respecting your property and leaving no trace behind.

For the last four years, we’ve been requesting reviews for our business on our Google Business profile. We’ve only gotten five-star reviews, and today, we’re going to share the results of doing some sentiment analysis and looking for common themes on our reviews of our tree removal business.

Sentiment Analysis

We’ve gotten 66 five-star reviews, and the sentiment seems to be extremely positive:

• Responsiveness and speed were mentioned in 25 reviews
• Professionalism was mentioned in 45 reviews
• Our post-job cleanups were mentioned in 35 reviews
• Our safety and equipment were mentioned in 30 reviews
• Our value and fair pricing was in 20 reviews
• Our emergency response and storm damage service were in 10 reviews
• Veteran-owned/local/family-owned pride were mentioned in 6 reviews

Here are some of our favorite excerpts and themes:

Fast Response Matters

Multiple reviewers praised Expert Tree Service for showing up quickly with full crews ready to go:

“We had a tree fall on our house making a large hole in the roof… They rearranged their schedule, removed the tree, and expertly tarped the roof—all for a reasonable price.” – Todd M.

“They saved my kitten from a 60ft spruce tree today!” – Jessica S.

Unmatched Professionalism and Clean-Up

Customers have been blown away by our team’s care, precision and how the property was left spotless.

“If the FBI came to investigate, they wouldn’t know a tree crew had been here.” – Christopher D.

“They leaf-blowed the driveway as they left. That’s the kind of detail we’re talking about.” – K.M.

Honest Advice that Puts the Homeowner First

We don’t force anyone to do a bigger job than necessary. Several reviews note that our owner, Keith, talked them out of removing healthy trees and helped them prioritize safety and cost-effectiveness over unnecessary extra work.

“Keith guided us on which trees to trim and which to leave, leaving money on the table to do right by us.” – Michael C.

Family-Owned with Community Roots

We aren’t owned by some corporation with sales quotas. We are a multi-generation, veteran-led company.

“Keith is a veteran and a volunteer who stepped up during Hurricane Helene. This guy gets it.” – Jamie H.

“They even rescued a nest full of baby squirrels—no casualties!” – Brent V.

Affordable and Fair

Several customers mentioned our fair pricing.

“The price was HALF what another tree company quoted us.” – Jacqueline M.

“They did 8 trees in a single morning and left our lawn better than they found it. 10/10.” – Phil N.

Equipped for Challenging Jobs

We have the equipment on hand for both the smallest and biggest jobs imaginable.

“They brought in a $750,000 crane with THE CLAW. It looked like something out of a Transformer movie.” – Jamie H.

“They had to hike through the woods to reach our family cabin—and still finished the job perfectly.” – Eric E.

Real People, Real Respect

Reviewers consistently shout out Keith, Rachel, Kevin, and the rest of the crew by name, not just for being good at their jobs, but for being kind, honest, and easy to work with.

“From the first phone call to the last cut, I knew I hired the right professionals.” – Eric E.

“Rachel runs the show. Always pleasant, great communication.” – Multiple reviews

As you can imagine, these reviews are a two-way street. We love serving our customers, and they share the love in return. If you’re in need of tree services in the Hudson Valley and Catskills region, give us a call at (845) 331-6782.

If your tree looks sick, bare, or damaged, you might be wondering: can it be saved? Or is it time to let it go? Here in the Hudson Valley, especially in towns like Kingston, New Paltz, and Rhinebeck, we see this question come up constantly. This quick guide will help you spot the signs and make the right call.