Dearborn property owners must trim private trees that overhang sidewalks to at least 8 feet and streets to at least 13.5 feet, while street trees in the public right of way are managed by the city.
Dearborn requires that branches overhanging public sidewalks be trimmed to maintain a minimum clearance, typically 8 feet for pedestrians and 13.5 feet for vehicular traffic over the street. Property owners are responsible for trimming limbs of private trees that encroach into the public way or obstruct traffic signs, streetlights, or sightlines at intersections. Street trees planted in the tree lawn between sidewalk and curb are generally maintained by the city Department of Public Works and residents should not prune them without authorization. Dead or diseased limbs that threaten persons or property must be removed promptly. During storm events, emergency trimming may be authorized without standard permits. Proper arboricultural practices should be followed, and topping of mature trees is discouraged. The city does not typically require permits for routine private tree pruning.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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