9.c) tree trimming policy Amended 1-20-15City of Scandia
Tree Trimming Policy
Adopted by the City Council
October 16, 2012
Amended January 20. 2015
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The City is adopting a uniform policy governing tree trimming and clearing of
brush which serves to protect the City's investment in its roads, to maintain safe
roadways for pedestrian and vehicular traffic, and to maintain general tree health.
This policy will allow maintenance within the right of way including but not
exclusive to, reshaping ditches, mowing, culvert repairs, and snow removal. The
Public Works Maintenance Superintendent shall determine work based on
priority, safety, and availability of equipment and staff. The Public Works Staff
shall generally follow these guidelines in tree trimming and clearing of brush:
Urban Right of Way (Adjacent to Roadways having Curb and Gutter):
Trim trees to allow for a minimum 20' clear height and shape trees for
aesthetic purposes and tree health.
Remove diseased or dead trees and limbs.
Remove trees or limbs blocking street signs, signals, or sight distances.
Rural Right of Way (Adjacent to Roadways not having Curb and Gutter):
Trim trees to allow for a minimum 20' clear height.
Remove diseased or dead trees and limbs.
Remove scrub trees and brush.
Remove trees and brush to allow for routine maintenance.
The flail mower shall not be used in a vertical position to trim trees.
Schedule:
This work is typically done during the winter months (November -March) by
the Public Works Department during regular work hours. It is the City's
intent to trim trees on all roadways within a 15 year cycle.
Notification:
Property owners shall be notified by mail at least 7 days prior to any
trimming occurring on their property except in the case of an emergency as
determined by the Mn enaRGe SupeFintondeptPublic Works Director. The
property owner may contact the Public Works Director within those 7 days
and ask for an onsite visit. If any issues are unresolved following the onsite
visit, the property owner has 5 days to file a written appeal with the City
Clerk's Office. Appeals will be heard at the next City Council meeting
following appropriate notice. The Public Works Director will mark all trees
to be removed that are at least 6 inches in diameter at a point measured 54
inches above the ground.
Disposal of Tree Waste:
The City's Public Works Department will either chip or haul the trees and
brush off site. If the property owner wishes to keep non -disease tree
waste, they may contact the City 24 hours in advance of removal.
Emergency Cutting:
This policy does not apply in the event that cutting is necessary to remove
road obstructions or to eliminate trees or brush that is in imminent danger
of collapse.