Tree Inspections Ongoing to Ensure Safe Public Roadways Sugar Land, TX ¬– Sugar Land inspectors are currently inspecting trees along City right-of-ways to ensure compliance with codes and safe access for fire trucks, ambulances and garbage trucks. Almost half the City has been inspected, and completion of the project is expected by September. Violations result in notices to residents to correct trees that create hazards for along public streets. Sugar Land residents and business owners are required by City ordinance to trim their trees if public rights-of-way are affected. Properly pruned trees allow large vehicles such as fire trucks, ambulances and garbage trucks to safely navigate City streets with a clear view of traffic. All trees and limbs growing in or near a right-of-way must be trimmed to the regulated height stated by city ordinance: Where the tree overhangs a residential street, there must be a clear space under the tree that is 12 feet above the street surface and 8 feet above the sidewalk surface. Where the tree overhangs a non-residential street with occasional semi-trailer traffic, there must be a clear space under the tree that is 14 feet above the street surface and 8 feet above the sidewalk surface. Courtesy notices are issued to properties found in violation of the ordinance. Staff works with homeowner associations or property management groups to ensure compliance. If violations persist, the Code Enforcement Department will issue notices of violation. Final notices will provide another compliance deadline. Citations to appear in court will be issued for properties that fail to meet compliance deadlines. Trees are a valuable asset to properties and the environment, and pruning involves making good decisions for the health of the tree. • The following pruning tips will ensure a healthy tree and safe roadways: • Use tools that are sharp and clean. • Prune only the lower limbs required for clearance, as well as any broken or dead branches. • Heavy thinning of interior branches is not necessary and is not healthy for trees. • For large limbs and limbs that can’t safely be reached, the City recommends hiring a professional arborist. For more tree care information and tips for information on local arborists, visit treesaregood.org. For questions about maintenance responsibilities, contact individual homeowner associations or the City of Sugar Land Public Works Department at 281-275-2450.
Posted on: Mon, 14 Apr 2014 15:24:13 +0000
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