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1. Do I need a permit to remove a tree near wetlands?

Yes. If the tree has been deemed hazardous by a qualified professional (arborist, tree company, etc.) then you may apply for an Administrative Approval here that is issued by the Conservation Agent for the removal of 1-4 trees. Additional trees may require an appropriate application and approval by the Conservation Commission. 

If you wish to remove healthy, non hazardous trees for the purpose of extending lawn or similar, then the appropriate application (RDA or NOI) must be submitted and voted upon by the Conservation Commission. 

If you are unsure which process is necessary, please contact the Conservation Agent at mdanza@southboroughma.com or 508-281-8984.

2. I received an abutter notification - what do I do?

If you received an abutter's notification in the mail, that means that there is a proposed project within 100' or 200' of your property. You may contact the Conservation Assistant, Lara Davis, for additional information on the application, project description, and time of date of the public hearing. Please be sure to put the referenced address of the project within your email so we can appropriately address any questions. 

Public hearings for wetland permits are limited to the Commission's jurisdiction under the Wetlands Protection Act and the Southborough Wetlands Bylaw. Any members of the public are welcome to attend our hearings, but are not required. All public hearings have a public comment section in which any related concerns or questions may be heard. 

3. Are there wetlands on my property?

You may first look at our online GIS mapping system and check off 'DEP Wetlands' under the Layers tab. You may also contact the Conservation Agent, Melissa Danza, to determine if there are any past or open permits on your property. Note that these online systems are for reference only and does not certify that there are or are not wetlands on the property. For an official determination, you would need a professional wetland scientist to determine any boundaries. 

4. How can I find out who owns or maintains a property?

To find property information, please refer to our GIS mapping system. Please note that this is used for Assessing purposes and does not depict true property boundaries. For property boundary disputes, you must hire a Licensed Professional Surveyor independently. The Town does not provide these services.