Tree trimming on private property is largely unregulated in Allegheny County. Street tree and right-of-way trimming is controlled by municipalities; Pittsburgh requires a permit from the Department of Public Works Forestry Division for any work on street trees.
Pennsylvania common law gives property owners the right to trim branches overhanging their property line to the boundary, without obligation to pay or notify the neighbor, provided the work does not kill the tree. Pittsburgh City Code Chapter 635 requires a free permit from the Forestry Division to prune, plant, or remove any tree in the public right-of-way, and violations carry fines up to $300. Suburban municipalities typically require permits only for street trees. Utility line clearance by Duquesne Light and FirstEnergy is authorized under PUC tariffs and does not require landowner consent within easements.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Penn Hills, PA
Recreational vehicles, boats, and trailers may be stored on residential property in side or rear yards only, per Penn Hills Zoning Ordinance performance stan...
Penn Hills, PA
Residential driveways in Penn Hills require a driveway permit and curb cut approval from the Public Works Department. Minimum widths and setbacks set in the ...
Penn Hills, PA
On-street parking in Penn Hills is governed by the Traffic Code (Chapter 202 codified ordinances). Parking is generally permitted unless signed otherwise; st...
Penn Hills, PA
Vehicles left on public streets or visible on private property for more than 48 to 72 hours in an inoperable condition may be tagged and towed under Penn Hil...
Penn Hills, PA
EV charging stations on private property follow the PA Uniform Construction Code and National Electrical Code; a Penn Hills electrical permit is required for...
Penn Hills, PA
Commercial vehicles over 1 ton or with commercial markings cannot be parked overnight in residential districts per the Penn Hills Zoning Ordinance. One servi...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Allegheny County.
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