Frequently Asked Questions

Usually town trees are 10’ -20’ from the curb line and are located in the planting utility easement. Town trees are usually all in a line with the  adjacent properties’ town trees.

NO! All town trees are maintained by Shade Tree & parks call our office for a service request to trim.

No, the policy of the Shade Tree Commission is not to remove live healthy trees.

Yes, the Shade Tree Commission will inspect your location and plant at no cost to you appropriate trees for your area.

Most trees that are leaning have been growing that way towards the sun since they were planted or grew naturally. Those trees have a cell structure that is stronger on the back side of the lean which counter acts the lean. The policy of the Shade Tree commission is to investigate all concerns of leaning trees and to advise the property owner of our findings.

Most brooks run through or are the property boundaries of private property. Trimming and /or removal of those trees are the responsibility of the property owner.  If the tree has fallen or tree branches are obstructing the water flow the DPW will de-snag or remove the fallen tree or debris.

Currently there are no permits required to trim or remove trees on private property unless the property is undeveloped or there is a required Zoning Board planted buffer area. Call our office before you proceed with any tree work if you have a question if your property has such a buffer.

This is a question that has been handled by case law. Shade Tree recommends that you first talk to your neighbor before taking any actions.

The light green growths on the tree are lichens. Lichens will not harm the tree they are usually found on the northerly side of the tree, but not always and they are an indication of clean air.

No. The Shade Tree and Parks policy is not to remove live, and healthy town trees.  Shade Tree and Parks will work with you to redesign the driveway alignment.

Tree roots are usually located within the top 30” of soil where air, water and other natural nutrients are readily available. Older sewer lines of clay or cast iron pipe will sag or fail at joints allowing nutrient rich waste water to leak. The moisture from this leak will attract the roots down and into the pipes seeking moisture and ultimately clogging the pipe. Engineering studies have proven that the sewer line failed before the roots became a problem.