Removing trees is a necessary part of maintaining a healthy and safe urban forest.  Because trees do provide significant benefits, tree removals are limited to dead, dying, and dangerous trees.  

City arborists conduct an annual tree removal survey, consisting of a basic visual inspection, of all public trees every summer.  Because this survey occurs automatically there is not need to call the office to request an inspection unless you have concerns about a larger tree being unsafe.  

Trees identified for removal are marked with green paint and an informational door hanger is left at the property.  Removal of the stump is typically contracted to private tree companies, and a new tree is planted the following year.  

The City Forester is also available to conduct a more thorough inspection of trees year-round.  Again, tree removals are generally limited to dead, dying, and dangerous trees.  

Please note that we do not remove trees in conflict with sidewalks.  Sidewalk repair contractors should contact the forestry division to discuss root management solutions.  

Tree roots are also often blamed for damaging and blocking sewer pipes.  However, root growth into a sewer pipe only occurs when the pipe has first been damaged by other factors, such as soil compaction and shifting, and aging infrastructure.  Nutrients, oxygen, and warm temperature near cracks or grout erosion encourages root growth which interferes with sewerage flow.  

Because the roots are not at fault, we will not remove healthy trees that may have roots growing into defective or damaged sewer laterals. Property owners are responsible for correcting the problem and should contact a plumber to evaluate repair options.