Woburn commission tells resident to file RDA before tree removals on conserved land

A Woburn resident seeking to remove trees on land subject to a conservation restriction was told Feb. 22 that regulatory paperwork is required before the commission can permit removals.

Mark Dubey, of 3 Mentor Circle, told the commission an arborist had recommended taking down multiple trees because of vine coverage and declining health; he said initial onsite estimates ranged from three to seven trees. The commission said three members had previously inspected the site and reported back, but that the recorded conservation restriction limits work and triggers a formal RDA process.

Commission staff explained Dubey must submit the full state and local forms, a fee, and distribute copies to other city departments and MassDEP. Dubey said he was willing to pursue the application but worried about upfront costs such as an arborist letter; commissioners suggested the RDA and the commission’s site walk would clarify what work is allowable and that at least the trees posing an immediate threat to structures would likely be permitted.

The commission did not approve removal at the meeting; it instructed staff to provide application instructions and to schedule a full-commission site visit once the RDA paperwork is filed.