Tree Removal & Stump Grinding in Island Heights, NJ

Island Heights is a small, hilly borough on the north shore of the Toms River near Barnegat Bay, known for its Victorian-era homes, riverfront bluffs and big old shade trees. Mature oaks and pines grow close to porches, rooflines and narrow streets, so careful sectional removals, pruning for roof clearance and storm cleanup are the jobs we hear about most. Tell us about your job and we'll pass it to one local, independent tree company that serves Island Heights.

Tree services you can request in Island Heights

Tree permits in Island Heights

Island Heights has one of the stricter tree ordinances in the county. Chapter 26, “Trees,” makes it unlawful to remove a tree from a residential or commercial lot without a borough tree removal permit, and the borough may approve no more than two trees per lot in a calendar year. The listed fee is $25 per tax lot for up to two trees, plus up to $50 more if the borough needs an arborist to judge the tree's health. Removed trees generally have to be replaced, at least 4 feet tall: none for trunks under 4 inches, one-for-one for 4 to 6 inches, two-for-one for 6 to 10 inches, and three-for-one above 10 inches. Permits are good for 12 months (Island Heights Code, Ch. 26). The chapter lists exemptions and a separate hazard-tree process, so check with the borough before work starts.

Common jobs in Island Heights

Big oaks over old homes. Limbs over slate or shingle roofs and wraparound porches usually come down in roped sections.
Bluff and slope trees. Trees on the steep lots facing the river can lean as roots lose soil; have a leaning tree looked at before a nor'easter, not after.
Storm cleanup. Wind off the river and bay brings down deadwood and whole pines.

Local notes

Because of the two-tree yearly limit, plan larger projects early and ask your tree company which trees to prioritize. Streets are narrow and parking is tight, so ask how the crew will stage the chipper and truck. The borough provides a list of Barnegat Bay–friendly trees for replacement planting.

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. Then see what to do after a storm and what insurance usually covers.