Recently, there have been several inquiries for possible replacement of trees within a development. This is not surprising given the recent very dry and stressful conditions that trees have endured. However, unless the tree is on township property, neither the Shade Tree Commission nor the Department of Public works (DPW) has the authority or obligation to remove or replace these trees. Instead, it is the homeowner's responsibility.
In most cases, the trees a developer installs are guaranteed for two years from the date of installation, which is standard for most nurseries. Beyond this time and the time in which a developer's escrow is returned for completing improvements to the township's satisfaction, the responsibility for replacing trees lies with the owner of the property.
If you cannot determine whether a specific tree is within the Township's property or right of way, you may call Engineering (extension 230) to obtain street right-of-way widths to assist in determining if the tree is on Township property. Your inquiry will be easier to handle if you provide your specific block and lot numbers.