Parkway Planting: Lincoln vs Rocklin

Can I plant a tree in the parkway strip in front of my house?

Only with City approval. The parkway strip is public right-of-way regulated under LMC Title 12 and the Public Facilities Improvement Standards; new plantings must use an approved species and meet spacing and tree-well requirements. Contact Public Services before planting.

Who is responsible for pruning the street tree in front of my home?

Maintenance responsibility for parkway trees in Lincoln is set by the City's improvement standards and tract conditions. Many older residential frontages place pruning responsibility on the adjacent property owner, while parks-area and arterial street trees are maintained by the City. Confirm with Public Services.

Do I need a permit to remove a street tree that is damaging my sidewalk?

Yes. Removal or replacement of any tree in the public right-of-way requires an encroachment permit, and the City will typically require replacement with an approved species under the improvement standards.

Can I plant a tree in the parkway strip in front of my house?

Only with city authorization. Section 12.08.130 prohibits planting a tree in the city right-of-way contrary to the chapter. Contact the Public Services / Engineering Division for the approved species list, spacing, and permit before planting in the parkway.

Whose responsibility is it to trim a street tree?

The abutting property owner is responsible for maintaining clearance - 8 feet above the sidewalk and 14 feet above the street - even when the tree itself is in the public right-of-way. The city may trim at the owner's expense if clearance is not maintained.

Can I pour concrete around the base of the parkway tree in front of my house?

No. Section 12.08.130 specifically prohibits paving or filling the ground around any street tree in a way that shuts off air, light, or water from the roots, except under written authorization from the City Manager. Use a tree well or permeable surface.