Sheboygan, WI Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Sec. 126-127(a) applies to trees and shrubs standing in or upon any public right-of-way or public area, and also to those on private premises adjacent to a public right-of-way or public area. Their lowest branches projecting over the public street or alley must provide a clearance of not less than 13½ feet. The city forester can waive that requirement for newly planted trees if he determines they do not interfere with public travel, obstruct the light of any street light or endanger public safety. Subsection (b) puts the decision on whether pruning is necessary with the city forester, subsection (c) sets the sidewalk clearance at not less than eight feet, and subsection (d) requires every cut above one inch in diameter to be treated with a tree wound compound.

Who does the work matters. Trimming or pruning a tree in the public right-of-way or any public area needs a written permit from the city forester (Sec. 126-96), which expires six months after issuance (Sec. 126-99). Utilities working near trees get a permit limited to their actual necessities, and the cost of an inspector supervising the work is charged to the utility at the usual city rate (Sec. 126-100). Anyone who prunes or trims trees for compensation needs a city license (Sec. 126-156), with a landscaping license fee of $35.00 (Sec. 126-158).

Corner lots carry an extra limit. Sec. 126-128 prohibits maintaining, planting or permitting any hedge, tree, shrub or other growth that obstructs the view of a motor vehicle operator or pedestrian approaching an intersection. In the clear-sight triangle, trees and shrubs cannot exceed a 30-inch height above the street grade, and growth above 30 inches is declared a public nuisance.

Enforcement runs through the city forester, who is the superintendent of parks (Sec. 126-61) and can enter private premises at reasonable times to examine any tree or shrub (Sec. 126-63). A tree or shrub on private premises that is a public nuisance, meaning its condition interferes with the use of a public area or endangers persons or property, draws a written notice with an abatement period of not less than 30 days unless immediate action is needed for public safety (Sec. 126-65). If the owner does not comply, the city abates it and enters the expense as a charge against the property (Sec. 126-66).