After a summer full of lots of rain it seems many of our sidewalk trees are due for a tree trimming. This is each homeowners responsibility and only takes a couple of minutes to make our sidewalks safer for everyone.
Here’s what you should know about tree branches that hang over sidewalks.
- No tree branch should hang lower than 13 feet over the roadway
- No tree branch should hang lower than 8 feet over the sidewalk
- All trees, bushes, shrubs, and other types of foliage shall not obstruct the visual sight of street signs or the illumination of streetlights
REMINDER – For bulk trash pickup you need to bundle limbs, palm fronds, and similar items with string. Keep bundles three feet long or less. Limit weight to less than 60 pounds per bundle.
If you don’t bundle brush and keep it 3ft or less in length and less than 60 pounds, they will NOT pick it up. If your trimmings didn’t get picked it ensure that (1) it’s bundled and (2) its the proper length.
Also while you are out there don’t forget it’s time to remove those straps and stakes on the street trees. Many of the trees have started to grow into these supports so it’s important to remove to allow the tree to grow properly. The straps can simply be cut. The metal stake is a beast to get out, and if you have any tips or tricks on removal please let us know!
For more specifics on tree trimming tips read this article. Have questions about the trees along the road in front of your house? Reach out to the Facilities and Grounds team.
Would it not make more sense for the neighborhood to offer bulk trimming (at owner’s expense) so that there is assurance that these are done in a consistent and required manner?
In looking at our property survey, the trees fall on public property (property end at the sidewalk). Shouldn’t the county take care of maintaining these since they do not fall within the homeowner’s private property similar to the street lights and sidewalk?
Jon- Is this something specific with your property and placement of the tree? The street trees that are the owners responsibility are the ones planted in the strip of grass between the sidewalk and street. That piece of land is nominally owned by the county but must be maintained by the home owner, just like mowing the grass there.
Hoping this happens as I am constantly battling tree branches on our walks.