Tree Removal & Stump Grinding in Howell, NJ

Howell Township is one of the largest towns in Monmouth County, bordering Brick, Lakewood and Jackson to the south. Southern Howell sits on the sandy Outer Coastal Plain with pine-oak woods, and neighborhoods like Ramtown, Land of Pines, Parkway Pines and the streets around the Manasquan Reservoir are full of tall oaks and pitch pines over houses, decks and driveways. Many lots are an acre or more, so multi-tree removals, lot clearing and stump grinding are common. Tell us about your job and we'll pass it to one local, independent tree company that serves Howell.

Tree services you can request in Howell

Tree permits in Howell

Howell regulates tree removal under its Woodlands Management rules, the “Howell Township Tree Removal and Replacement Ordinance” (Howell Township Code, Ch. 188, Art. XXII). When we checked on October 28, 2026, § 188-190 exempted residential home site lots of one acre or less (subject to any easements or buffer restrictions on the lot) and removal by a homeowner of dead, dying, diseased or storm-damaged trees, or trees whose lean makes them a hazard to structures or people. The township's Howell Land Use FAQ says the same: residential lots under 1 acre do not need a permit, though it recommends checking that the tree isn't in an easement or wetland, and residential lots over 1 acre do.

On larger lots, the tree removal permit application goes to the Land Use Office in duplicate with a survey, the number and species of trees over 4 inches DBH to be removed, and the reason. The form lists a $15 fee for residential property and $150 for commercial (fees are set by ordinance and can change). A permit is good for one year. Removals tied to new construction need the permit before the building permit, and bigger clearing can trigger replacement trees or a Tree Fund payment under § 188-194. If your lot is over an acre, backs onto wetlands or a buffer, or you are building, call the Howell Land Use Office first.

Local notes for Howell

Pine-oak woods: southern Howell (Ramtown, Land of Pines, Parkway Pines) has sandy soil much like neighboring Jackson and Lakewood, and shallow-rooted pines and oaks there go over in nor'easters (warning signs).
The one-acre line: check your survey or tax record for lot size before you assume you're exempt; a lot just over an acre needs a permit.
Wetlands and easements: lots along the Manasquan River, the reservoir and smaller brooks often have wetland buffers or conservation easements where trees can't be cut freely even on a small lot.
Big jobs: on acreage, bundle removals, stumps and brush in one request (lot clearing, stump grinding).
Neighbors: Brick, Lakewood, Jackson and Wall Township.

Before you hire

New Jersey requires tree care businesses to be licensed through the NJ Board of Tree Experts. Ask for the company's Licensed Tree Care Operator number and certificate of insurance. For stump grinding, the free 811 utility markout is required before digging (NJ One Call).

Storm damage or a tree on a wire?

If there is immediate danger, call 911. Stay away from downed lines and report them to your electric utility (JCP&L, 1-888-544-4877, also serves this part of Monmouth County). Then see what to do after a storm and what insurance usually covers.