Care of Trees Along City Streets

In Edina, there are approximately 30,000 tree growing in the easement along City streets. Management of these trees for all concerned is shared between property owners and City personnel, depending on the needed or desired conditions to be corrected or improved.

Property owners should be aware of City ordinances regulating vegetative growth along streets and how this vegetation must be controlled from encroaching public thoroughfares – streets, alleys and sidewalks.

By ordinance all streets must be clear of vegetation to a height of 16 feet. Sidewalks must be clear to a height of 8 feet. All vegetation must be trimmed and maintained to comply with this ordinance whether the vegetation is growing from within or outside the boulevard area. Residents must also maintain vegetation in a manner that reduces risk along public thoroughfares. Deadwood above these areas or other branches with potential for failure, large enough to pose a public safety threat, must be removed.

The City Forester routinely inspects these areas. Whenever conditions are observed that require remedial action, notices are sent to property owners which prescribe and describe the necessary remedy, and allow a certain time period for the property owner to comply. The City Forester is always available to residents for advice on proper tree management within these areas.

In situations where the City Forester observes hazardous conditions of vegetation along streets which are immediately threatening public safety, such conditions will be corrected at the expense of the City.

Boulevard trees may only be planted with a permit from the City. Contact the Park and Recreation Department for more information. Certain species are not allowed, by ordinance. Some areas, such as intersections, have restrictions which must be observed for public safety purposes.

When new trees are planted, it is advised that the owners follow a management plan that includes close observation and scheduled trimming to make these trees adopt and fit into these constricted environments. Proactive trimming when the tree is young is the best way to control shape, minimize or eradicate present or future risks, and positively affect the health and longevity of the tree. Early removal of the lowest branches also hastens the vertical growth of trees.

The boulevard environment is a highly visible area. Although these trees are most beneficial to individual property owners, the care of these trees also reflects on the immediate neighborhood. Trees properly maintained improve public safety and beautify the entire community.