Tree Removal and Trimming

How to Request Trimming or Removal of a City Tree

It sometimes seems that we are losing one of our older trees every time we turn around. The Parks Department removes about 185 trees each year or 2% of the current street tree population. Street or driveway reconstruction are generally the only cases that may result in the removal of healthy trees. A “city tree” is one located on public property, usually between the curb and sidewalk or within the street right-of-way where no sidewalk exists.

If you think a city tree needs attention, call the Parks Department at 483-7547 or 483-7573.An arborist will be sent out to inspect the tree. If it is structurally unsound or contains too many dead branches to warrant trimming, it will be scheduled for removal. If a trim is all that is required that will be scheduled. Trimming may be done to remove dead wood, clear wires, raise low branches or remove limbs from too near a building.

Trees are not removed because residents are tired of raking leaves or because of sidewalk or sewer problems. Trees are considered valuable community assets. It is recognized that they must be managed to provide the benefits we enjoy without creating hazards or serious nuisance situations.

Please understand that the staff available to do tree work is very small and priority must be given to dangerous situations. Months and, unfortunately, years may pass between a request and work depending on the situation. For information, call the Parks Department at 483-7547 or 483-7573.

The Electric Division of the Board of Public Utilities has contracted with Asplundh Tree Expert Co. for an aggressive tree-trimming program to improve the reliability of its electric system. The Parks Department reviews this program to help assure the best possible results are achieved. Further information regarding this activity is available on the Jamestown BPU web site.