Bristol Township, PA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Section 186-4D of the Bristol Township Code sets the clearance rule. All shade trees must be kept trimmed so that the minimum height where they overhang any public walk or road is nine feet. The Shade Tree Commission of Bristol Township reserves the right to designate a higher clearance on certain highways where heavy traffic or other conditions make it expedient, so a street signed for heavier traffic can carry a stricter number than nine feet.

The duty reaches private lots. Trees standing on private property with branches projecting over a public highway must be trimmed by the property owner so the lowest branches sit at least nine feet up, or at such other height as the Commission specifies.

Enforcement runs through written notice. If the owner neglects or refuses to trim after the Commission notifies the owner in writing, and the time specified in the notice runs out, the Commission can have the trimming done. The owner pays. The entire cost becomes a lien on the premises, filed and collected by the Township in the same manner as municipal claims are filed and collected.

Two companion rules apply to the work itself. First, § 186-4A makes it unlawful to cut or prune a shade tree without first obtaining a permit, except in immediate necessity for protection of life or property, so a crew trimming a street tree needs the Commission's permit. Permit applications go in writing to the Managing Director (§ 186-3). Second, under § 186-4J, when pruning or taking down a tree requires moving electric wires, the wire owner must temporarily remove the wires or cut off the current within 24 hours after service of written notice from the Commission. Section 186-4F also requires guards at shade trees near any building operation so work does not injure them. A Tree Warden appointed by the Commission enforces these regulations (§ 186-5).