Overhanging Tree Limbs

Overhanging Branches Can Delay Emergency Vehicles

14' High – Let Us By

Overhanging tree limbs can delay emergency vehicles when seconds make the difference between life and death. Obstructing limbs also cause damage to costly city and school district vehicles.  Be "tree-sponsible" and keep limbs trimmed away from traffic signs, signals, street name signs and other items related to public safety.

Tree Trimming Requirements

Trees, shrubs, vines and similar plants must be trimmed to 14 feet above the ground surface to allow for fire trucks, ambulances, school buses, garbage trucks, postal service and other public service vehicles to pass through safely.

Brush and limbs trimmed to 14 feet above the ground surface keep public roadways and alleys free and clear of obstructions.

An illustration of the tree trimming requirements - 14 feet above the ground surface

Tree Pruning Tips

Property owners can safely trim lower branches. For large limbs and those that cannot be reached safely, please hire a professional arborist.

  • Use the proper tools, and keep them clean and sharp.
  • Remove any branches that interfere with streets, sidewalks or routine maintenance such as mowing.
  • Try to maintain a trunk without branches for the first 10 to 15 feet off the ground. Trim competing limbs for greater control of the tree.
  • Prune any broken or diseased branches.
  • When making cuts to branches or limbs, the branch collar should not be damaged to protect the tree from internal rot.
  • Remove any branch sprouts or suckers that are growing from the base of the tree in the late summer.
  • Major trimming should occur between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day.
  • Dressing the tree wound is not recommended, except for oak trees which should be painted at all times of the year to help prevent oak wilt infestation.
  • Pruning of major branches during the summer heat will cause sun scale allowing an avenue for insects and disease.

For the convenience of residents, the city picks up brush and limbs up to 10 inches in diameter once a month. Brush must be neatly piled (not scattered) at least 2 feet from utility poles, trees, gas and water meters, fire hydrants, fences, mailboxes, sprinkler heads, and any other obstacle that would prevent collection. Visit the Brush Pickup Program page for more information.

 

Report Overhanging Tree Limbs

Report Overhanging Trees or Overgrown Vegetation on Private Residential Properties Online. A report can also be made by calling 972-237-8296, Monday - Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Report Overhanging Tree Limbs near Power Lines, please call Oncor at 1-888-313-6862 to schedule an inspection.