Apple Valley, MN Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Section 152.44 applies to all limbs of trees, or portions of limbs, that overhang public streets, sidewalks or paths. The clearance is ten feet above the surface of any public sidewalk or path and 13 feet above the surface of any public street. Where limbs overhang both a public sidewalk and a public street, the trimming height is 13 feet above the surface of the street. The code declares limbs below those heights a nuisance and prohibits them, so the owner of the tree carries the duty to prune.

The one exception covers a tree where pruning or trimming would endanger the tree's health, as the city determines. Even then the exception ends if a public nuisance exists. Separately, § 94.17(C) declares a public nuisance all wires and limbs of trees so close to the surface of a sidewalk or street as to constitute a danger to pedestrians or vehicles, and § 94.17(B) does the same for trees, hedges, billboards or other obstructions that block a clear view of all traffic approaching an intersection.

Who does the work matters. A business that cuts, trims, prunes, removes, sprays or otherwise treats trees in Apple Valley needs a city license from the City Clerk under § 152.43, renewed annually with the fee set in the appendix to Chapter 35, expiring December 31, and backed by proof of public liability insurance of at least $300,000 combined single limit. A licensed contractor who fails to comply can lose the license after a City Council public hearing with written notice mailed at least ten days ahead. Chemical treatment requires a state commercial pesticide applicator certification.

The city has its own trimming authority on public land. Under § 152.42(A) it can maintain or remove trees while working in any public right-of-way or easement, including sidewalk, path, utility and street maintenance, and it notifies adjacent property owners of trees that may be affected. Section 152.42(B) lets the city charge the abutting owner the cost of maintenance or removal, and charges unpaid 30 days after the invoice due date are delinquent and collected as a special assessment. The Public Works Director serves as City Forester.