Introduction
What are tree house zoning laws? Building a tree house is a rite of passage for many families—and for kids, it’s a backyard dream come true. But what most parents don’t know is that in many New England towns, tree houses may be regulated under local zoning laws. If you live in Manchester, Goffstown, Bedford, or Chelmsford, here’s what to know before you break out the power tools.
Are Tree Houses Considered “Structures”?
Yes, in many towns. Even if it’s “just for play,” a tree house with a platform, enclosure, or ladder can be defined as an accessory structure, triggering setback and height regulations.
You’ll want to consider:
- Distance from property lines (setbacks)
- Maximum height limits
- Whether the tree house is built in or on a tree or has posts in the ground
- Foundation and anchoring methods
Zoning and Permit Requirements by Town
✅ Manchester, NH
- Manchester treats tree houses as accessory structures if they are permanently affixed to the ground or exceed certain size/height limits.
- A building permit is generally required if the platform is over 30 inches high, or the total structure exceeds 200 square feet.
- Setbacks from property lines (often 10 ft or more in residential zones) still apply.
👉 Call the Building Regulations Division at (603) 624-6450 before you start.
✅ Goffstown, NH
- Goffstown has a more flexible approach, but structures over 8 feet in height or built on posts are often considered permanent and require permits.
- Accessory structures must meet side and rear setbacks (typically 10 ft in residential zones).
- Tree houses that are small, not enclosed, and not built on support posts may be considered exempt—but confirm with the Code Enforcement Officer.
👉 Contact Goffstown Code Enforcement at (603) 497-8990 ext. 118.
✅ Bedford, NH
- The town often treats tree houses as “accessory recreational structures.” If they are enclosed or built on posts, they may need review under zoning setbacks and building code.
- Most neighborhoods have a 10 ft minimum side setback for such structures.
✅ Chelmsford, MA
- In Chelmsford, anything over 100 sq ft or permanently installed (e.g., posts in the ground) may require a building permit.
- Even smaller tree houses might be subject to zoning review if they are close to lot lines or exceed height limits.
- Tree removal may also require town approval under local conservation regulations.
What Happens If You Don’t Follow Zoning Rules?
- Stop-work orders or fines
- Requirement to remove or modify the structure
- Civil liability for injuries or trespass complaints
- Zoning board appeals or variance hearings (can be time-consuming and costly)
Tips Before You Build
- Sketch the structure and note its dimensions and location.
- Call your town’s Building Department and ask whether it qualifies as an “accessory structure” under your zoning district.
- Avoid building too close to property lines, even if you think you’re exempt.
- Document your communications, especially if you’re given informal permission.
Need Help Navigating Local Zoning Laws?
At Granfield Legal Services, we help New England families and property owners understand land use rules, secure variances, and avoid zoning headaches.
📍Serving Manchester, Goffstown, Bedford, Chelmsford & surrounding towns
🌐 www.granfieldlaw.com
📞 Call: 978-799-0906 | 603-637-1637
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