Annapolis, MD Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

All large, established trees shall be pruned to sufficient height to allow free passage for pedestrian and vehicular traffic, which shall be ten feet over a sidewalk and twelve feet over a street, except a street subject to truck traffic which, at the discretion of the department may have clearance of fifteen feet. The department may waive the provisions of this section for a newly planted tree upon a determination that the tree does not interfere with public travel, obstruct the light of any street light, or endanger public safety.C.All dead wood, stubs, broken branches, badly formed branches, disease-infected and insect-infested branches, and branches interfering with public travel, lighting, existing buildings and traffic signs shall be removed during the trimming operation, with consideration given to the symmetry and beauty of the tree or shrub.D.All trees and shrubs in public areas which are marked for removal shall be removed completely from the growing site and disposed of in an authorized manner. The stump shall be removed to a depth suitable for future planting of trees or turf.E.Any person who violates this section is guilty of a municipal infraction and is subject to a fine as established by resolution of the City Council. (Ord. O-5-04 § 1 (part), 2004; Ord. O-36-01 § 1: prior code § 6-78(C)(4); Ord. No. O-35-18, § I, 11-19-2018)

(Ord. No. O-20-20, § I, 9-14-2020)