Des Moines requires property owners to maintain trees so they do not obstruct sidewalks, streets, or sight lines. Minimum clearance of 8 feet over sidewalks and 14 feet over streets is required.
Des Moines requires property owners to trim trees on their property that overhang public sidewalks or streets. Minimum clearance is 8 feet above sidewalks and 14 feet above streets. Trees must not obstruct traffic signs, signals, or streetlights. The city's Forestry Division manages trees in the public right-of-way and city parks. Property owners are responsible for trees between the sidewalk and curb (boulevard trees) in terms of watering and basic care, but the city handles major trimming and removal of boulevard trees. The city may issue notices requiring owners to trim trees that create hazards. Des Moines has an active urban forestry program and Emerald Ash Borer management plan.
Failure to trim after notice: municipal infraction. City may perform the work and bill the property owner.
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no city ordinance restricting lawn ornaments on residential property. Chapter 60 (Housing) requires reasonable property maintenance and could ...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Chapter 48 (Noise) standards could theoretically apply to overnight blow...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no municipal ordinance regulating residential holiday lights. Display timing, brightness, and animation are governed primarily by HOA and cond...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines requires building permits for permanent outdoor kitchen installations with gas lines, electrical wiring, plumbing, or structural roofs under Chapt...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no smoker-specific ordinance. Open burning is regulated under Chapter 70 (Fire Prevention) and Iowa Code 100B with cooking-fire exemptions. Io...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines Fire Code under Chapter 26, Article XII adopts the International Fire Code (IFC). IFC 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices and LP-gas tank...
See how Des Moines's tree trimming rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.