Not legal advice. This is a plain-English summary of public sources. Rules can change — confirm with the Town before any work. Last reviewed November 2026.
The short answer
A tree that stands fully on your own private property, away from the street right-of-way and outside wetland areas, generally does not need a Town tree permit. If you aren't sure where your property line or the public right-of-way is, check with the Tree Warden first — the right-of-way often extends beyond the edge of the pavement.
Trees in the public street: Town Code Chapter 91
Fairfield's Town Code, Chapter 91, § 91-6, says:
"No person shall plant, remove or prune any tree or shrub within the limits of any public street in the Town without first obtaining a written permit from the Town Tree Warden."
- Applications are made in writing on Tree Warden forms and describe the size, species, type and location of the tree (§ 91-7).
- The Tree Warden may set conditions on the permit and charge a reasonable fee (§ 91-7, § 91-8).
- If work is done without a permit, the Tree Warden can order the person or property owner to remove or replace it at their own expense (§ 91-9).
Source: Fairfield Town Code, Chapter 91 (eCode360)
What counts as a Town tree
According to the Town, Town trees include trees in road right-of-ways, parks, open space, municipal properties and schools. There are about 60,000 trees in Town right-of-ways alone, and damaging or removing a Town tree is a chargeable offense. Source: Town of Fairfield – Tree Management
For contractors, the Town's "Request for Tree Work on Public Property" form requires a certificate of insurance of at least $2,000,000 for work on public property.
Tree on private property? Get a free removal quote.
State law: the Tree Warden's authority
Under CGS § 23-59, the Tree Warden has care and control of trees within public roads and grounds, except state highways (which are under CT DOT). Before removing a public tree, the Tree Warden posts a notice at least 10 days in advance, unless the tree is an immediate hazard. If someone objects in writing, a public hearing is held.
Under CGS § 23-65(f), anyone who wants to cut or remove a tree on municipal property or a public road must apply in writing to the tree warden (or to CT DOT for state roads) and may not proceed until the permit is received.
State roads: CT DOT, not the Town
Trees along state roads — for example US-1 (Post Road) and Route 58 (Black Rock Turnpike) — fall under the Connecticut Department of Transportation, not the Fairfield Tree Warden.
Wetlands and the 100-foot Upland Review Area
Fairfield regulates wetlands, watercourses and a 100-foot Upland Review Area around them. Tree cutting or clearing in these areas may need an Inland Wetlands permit from the Conservation Department. Many wetlands aren't obviously wet. Source: Town of Fairfield – Inland Wetlands Program. See also lot & brush clearing.
Contact the Fairfield Tree Warden
Town of Fairfield Tree Warden
DPW Operations – Town Garage
899 Richard White Way, Fairfield, CT 06824
Phone: 203-256-3178
Monday–Friday, 7:00 am – 3:30 pm
Service requests can be submitted online.
Source: Town of Fairfield – Tree Warden
Fairfield, CT tree permit FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my own property in Fairfield, CT?
Generally not, if the tree is fully on your private property, away from the street right-of-way and outside wetland areas. If you're unsure where your property line or the right-of-way is, check with the Tree Warden first.
Who owns the trees along my street?
Trees within the public street right-of-way are Town trees under the care and control of the Tree Warden. The right-of-way often extends past the curb or road edge, so a tree near your front lawn may be a Town tree.
What happens if I remove a Town tree without a permit?
Under Town Code § 91-9, the Tree Warden can order the person or property owner to remove or replace it at their own expense. The Town also notes that damaging or removing a Town tree is a chargeable offense.
How do I contact the Fairfield Tree Warden?
Town of Fairfield Tree Warden, DPW Operations – Town Garage, 899 Richard White Way, Fairfield, CT 06824. Phone 203-256-3178, Monday–Friday, 7:00 am–3:30 pm. Service requests can also be submitted online.
Who handles trees along the Post Road or other state roads?
Trees along state highways such as US-1 (Post Road) and Route 58 (Black Rock Turnpike) are under the Connecticut Department of Transportation, not the Town.
Do wetlands rules apply to tree cutting?
They can. Fairfield regulates wetlands, watercourses and a 100-foot Upland Review Area, and cutting or clearing there may need an Inland Wetlands permit from the Conservation Department.