Lower Paxton, PA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Section 162-9 of the Lower Paxton Township Code sets the clearance numbers: all branches of shade trees must be kept trimmed to maintain a minimum height of 12 feet where they overhang a street and eight feet where they overhang a sidewalk. The duty is not limited to trees in the Township right-of-way. Shade trees standing on private property with branches overhanging sidewalks or streets must also be pruned by the owner so the lowest branches comply. If the owner neglects or refuses to bring the tree to the prescribed level within the time given in a written notice, the Township can perform the work at the owner's expense.

Who is responsible depends on the street layout, and the code covers both cases. Under § 162-6, the owner or occupier of property abutting a street must properly maintain trees in the adjoining tree lawn, which the chapter defines as the part of the right-of-way between the sidewalk and the portion used for vehicular traffic. Where there is no sidewalk or curb, the abutting owner is responsible for trees and vegetation between the edge of the cartway and the right-of-way line, and those trees must be pruned to conform with §§ 162-8 and 162-9. All trees and other vegetation within the right-of-way must be trimmed to allow full visibility of street signage and the minimum required line of sight.

How you prune matters as much as how high. Section 162-8 requires trimming that ensures natural growth and a natural appearance, in accordance with national pruning standards, and it specifically prohibits pollarding or topping, defined as removal of 2/3 or more of the crown. Section 162-13 adds that branches cannot obstruct light from streetlights. Because § 162-5 bars anyone from cutting or trimming a shade tree in the right-of-way without written approval from the Shade Tree Commission, get that approval before pruning a street tree. Contractors who trim in the right-of-way need general liability coverage with a policy limit of not less than $500,000 for each occurrence (§ 162-21). The Commission can permit deviations where literal enforcement would be impossible or impractical (§ 162-22).