Reading, PA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum clearance
- 14 ft over street, 8 ft sidewalk
- Who trims
- Arborist or nearest property owner
- Emergency trim
- No notice needed if hazardous
- Penalty
- Up to $600 fine or 30 days
Summary
Reading requires shade trees to be trimmed to at least 14 feet above the street and 8 feet above the sidewalk, and lets the City Arborist trim any branches that block a streetlight, sign or traffic flow.
Trees must be maintained to a height that will not create a safety hazard or to obstruct the visibility of any traffic control device, signs, or light from any streetlight and so that there shall be no obstructions hindering the visibility of the street or sidewalk. The minimum height of fourteen (14) feet over the cartway and eight (8) feet over the sidewalk should be maintained to ensure unobstructed traffic flow of vehicles and pedestrians.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-8: Current through August 10, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Under the shade tree ordinance, trees citywide must be kept clear of traffic signs, signals and streetlights, with a minimum clearance of 14 feet over the cartway and 8 feet over the sidewalk so vehicles and pedestrians pass unobstructed. The property owner nearest the tree is responsible for keeping the pedestrian way clear, but the Arborist or a designee may also trim overhanging branches directly, without prior notice if the obstruction poses an immediate hazard.
Violations & Fines
Failing to keep a shade tree trimmed to code violates the shade tree ordinance, punishable by a fine up to $600 plus costs or 30 days in jail, with each day of noncompliance a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high must Reading trim trees over the sidewalk?
Who trims a tree blocking a stop sign in Reading?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Reading
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