Boise property owners must trim trees so branches do not obstruct sidewalks (8 ft clearance) or streets (14 ft clearance). The Boise Community Forestry Unit regulates pruning of public trees and issues no-charge permits for street trees.
Boise City Code Title 8, Chapter 4 requires property owners to maintain trees overhanging public rights-of-way. Sidewalks need 8 feet of vertical clearance and streets require 14 feet. Trees in the public right-of-way (typically the planting strip between sidewalk and curb) are regulated by the Community Forestry Unit; any pruning cut over 2 inches or any removal requires a free permit and may require a certified arborist. Topping is prohibited. Boise has a designated Tree City USA status and maintains an approved species list. During storm cleanup Community Forestry assists with right-of-way trees but private property damage is owner responsibility.
Obstruction failure: 14-day notice, then $100-$500 abatement. Unpermitted work on public trees: up to $1,000 plus replacement cost.
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See how Boise's tree trimming rules stack up against other locations.
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