Ann Arbor requires trees and vegetation on private property to be trimmed so nothing intrudes into the public right-of-way below 8 feet, and to keep clear sight lines at intersections. This is a city rule; the county sets none.
Ann Arbor Chapter 40 section 3:14 governs trimming and corner clearance. Private-property trees and vegetation must be maintained so no part intrudes into the right-of-way in the space up to 8 feet above the surface, and vegetation near intersections must be kept low enough for adequate sight distance under AASHTO geometric-design criteria. Under section 3:13, no diseased, damaged, or insect-infested tree that endangers public property may be maintained. The city administrator has sole authority over street and park trees, so trimming a tree in the right-of-way needs the city's written permission.
Non-compliance lets the city do the work after 3 days' notice (immediately if a safety hazard) and bill the owner the cost plus a $50 admin fee; civil fines up to $1,000.
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