Rothschild, WI Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Section 505-10B of the tree ordinance sets the minimum vertical clearance Rothschild requires above public ways: any tree, plant, or shrub growing in a boulevard, public area, or on private property next to a public right-of-way must be trimmed so its lowest branches clear a public street or alley by at least 14 feet, and a public sidewalk by at least 10 feet. The rule also bars growth that blocks the light from a streetlight. The Village Forester decides when trimming is actually needed and can waive the clearance requirement for newly planted or existing trees found not to interfere with travel, block streetlight illumination, or endanger public safety, so a small ornamental tree isn't automatically in violation just because it's shorter than the standard.

1 safety standard for tree care operations, using OSHA-approved methods, and the Village specifically points contractors to the Alex Shigo publication on pruning trees near electric utility lines as its reference standard. A related but separate rule, § 505-11, requires property owners to keep any tree, shrub, or plant growth from blocking the view of an intersection, traffic sign, or driveway approach; the Village Forester can order removal of a sight obstruction and bill the cost to the property under § 505-7 if the Village has to do the work itself.