Haltom City, TX Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Haltom City ordinances require property owners to trim trees, shrubs, and other vegetation on their property so that branches do not obstruct public sidewalks, streets, alleys, or traffic control signs. Under the Public Works and Municode provisions, branches overhanging a sidewalk must be trimmed to provide at least 8 feet of vertical clearance; branches overhanging a street require at least 14 feet of clearance to accommodate emergency vehicles and buses. Owners are also responsible for removing dead, diseased, or hazardous limbs that could fall on a public way. The city does not issue a general tree trimming permit for work done on private trees that do not encroach on public property, but trimming or removing trees within the public right of way requires coordination with Public Works. Oak wilt is a significant regional concern: Texas A&M Forest Service recommends pruning oaks only from July through January to avoid peak beetle activity, and painting fresh cuts with wound dressing. Contractors must hold any required Texas pesticide applicator credentials when using herbicides on stumps. Within HOAs, Texas Property Code 202.007 protects certain xeriscape choices and limits HOA authority over tree planting and removal to reasonable aesthetic standards.