Shade Tree Advisory Committee

ABOUT US

The Shade Tree Advisory Committee consists of seven members appointed by the Lawrence Township Council. All of the members serve as volunteers.

Our Mission

We advise The Planning & Zoning Boards on applications for site plans and subdivisions regarding standards, types, and planting specifications for shade trees. We recommend to Township Council programs of shade tree improvement, planting, and replacement along public rights-of-way. The Shade Tree Advisory Committee has marked the Township's 19th year as a Tree City with a brochure highlighting the benefits derived from trees and the memorial tree program. See our latest brochure. For more information on how to care for trees see the attached.

We all need trees because of the many benefits. Most agree that trees have an aesthetic appeal and that they also provide shade, wood for construction, and wood for fireplaces. However, in our busy lives, we tend to take the many other advantages of trees for granted. Read more information about "Trees - Who Needs Them".

Attention Property Owners

Before cutting or trimming trees on your property, please be aware of our Municipal Ordinance 
  • Permit Required: Obtain a permit from the Township for cutting down trees of certain sizes  
  • Engineering Inspection: The Engineering Department must inspect trees before any removal. 
  • Residential Allowance: Homeowners can remove up to 5 trees annually, sized 8-29 inches in diameter. 
  • Specimen Trees: Larger trees are considered specimens and require a special permit and replacement if removed. 
  • Root System Protection: Damaging root systems or excessive pruning of specimen trees is considered removal. 
  • Unauthorized Removal: May result in replacement requirements or contributions to the Shade Tree Account. 


Remember: Our trees are valuable community assets. Let's work together to keep Lawrence green! Find more information here: https://tinyurl.com/Lawrencetrees


Programs and Resources

Members & Liaisons

Current Members:

  • David Bosted (Through 12/31/26)
  • Edward Brzoza, (Through 12/31/25)
  • Edward S. Sproles (Through 12/31/26)
  • Two Vacancies (Through 12/31/27)

If you are interested in applying for a position on this or any board/committee, please complete this form.

Current Liaisons:

  • Mayor Patricia Hendricks Farmer, Planning Board Liaison
  • TBD, Township Staff Liaison

Projects & Activities

The Shade Tree Advisory Committee regularly participates in the Lawrence Township annual Community Day in October.

This photo pictures the Shade Tree Advisory Committee’s David Bosted examining Arbor Day Tree 2018.

Pictured left to right are Councilman Michael S. Powers, Shade Tree Advisory Committee member David Bosted, Committee member Janet Kane, and Committee member Edward S. Sproles.

Click here to access the Shade Tree Advisory Committee Agendas and Minutes.