While the City appreciates and values the aesthetic benefit that trees provide, it is strongly recommended to avoid planting trees along the boulevards (the area between the curb and the sidewalk), or within the right-of-way (generally 30 feet in each direction from the center of the street).
Trees planted in the right-of-way cause numerous problems such as:
- reduced visibility for motorists and pedestrians
- structural damage to streets, sidewalks, bike paths, and underground utilities
- excessive leaf shedding in the fall, creating hazardous slippery conditions
The City reserves the right to trim or remove trees in the right-of-way that are obstructing signs or causing hazardous conditions for pedestrians or vehicles. As a general rule, all trees should be planted at least 20 feet from the edge of the curb and outside the public right-of-way or any public easements. In addition, care should be taken to plant at least 15 feet from any existing structure (sidewalk, driveway, house, hydrant, power lines, water shut-off valve, etc.) in order to avoid costly damage from heaving roots. These distances are minimums; the more clearance provided, the less likely it is that future problems or conflicts will develop.
The following is a list of acceptable trees from the City’s landscape ordinance:
- Black cherry
- Cedar
- Fir
- Hickory
- Linden
- Maple (except Silver Maple)
- Oak
- Pine
- Spruce
- Walnut
Due to their large root structure, insect problems, and/or susceptibility to storm damage, the City strongly discourages the planting of the following trees in yards:
- Silver Maple
- Box Elder
- Russian Olive
- Poplar species
- Willow
- Ash
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