Des Moines, IA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Sidewalk clearance
- 8 feet minimum
- Street clearance
- 12 feet minimum
- Who trims
- Property owner, not the city
- If ignored
- City trims, bills via property tax
- Penalty
- Misdemeanor or municipal infraction
Summary
Des Moines requires owners of trees overhanging a street or sidewalk to trim branches so streetlamps, signs, and intersections stay visible, keeping 8 feet of clearance over sidewalks and 12 feet over streets.
The owner of any tree, shrub or plant protruding into or overhanging a street or sidewalk shall trim the branches thereof to remove any obstruction of the view of any streetlamp, street sign, traffic control device or street intersection. Notwithstanding the requirements of section 114-14 of this Code, a clear space of eight feet above the surface of the sidewalk and a clear space of 12 feet above the surface of the street must be maintained.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 38 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Des Moines Municipal Code § 122-10(b) puts the trimming duty on the property owner, not the city: any tree, shrub, or plant protruding into or overhanging a street or sidewalk must be cut back to clear streetlamps, signs, traffic control devices, and intersection sightlines, keeping 8 feet of open space above the sidewalk and 12 feet above the street. If an owner ignores a forestry division notice to trim a nonconforming tree, the division removes the obstructing branches itself and certifies the cost to the county auditor for collection along with the owner's property taxes. A hazardous obstruction can be cut immediately without notice.
Violations & Fines
Failure to comply after notice: forestry division removes the obstructing branches and certifies removal costs to the county auditor, collected like property taxes; violators also risk misdemeanor or municipal infraction penalties under § 122-26.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has to trim a tree overhanging a Des Moines street or sidewalk?
How much clearance does Des Moines require above a sidewalk and street?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Des Moines
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