Wichita, KS Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Under Wichita Municipal Code, property owners are responsible for maintaining trees and shrubs on their property such that overhanging branches do not obstruct public sidewalks, streets, alleys, or traffic control signs. Required minimum clearances are 8 feet above sidewalks, 14 feet above public streets and alleys, and full visibility for stop signs and traffic signals. The Wichita Park and Recreation Department's Forestry Division maintains trees within the public right-of-way (typically the strip between sidewalk and curb). Residents may not prune, remove, or plant trees in the public right-of-way without a permit from the Forestry Division. Violations of clearance rules may result in a written notice giving the property owner 10 to 30 days to comply, after which the city may perform the work and bill the owner. Branches encroaching from a neighbor's tree may be trimmed back to the property line under Kansas common law (the self-help rule), but the trimming must not damage the tree or kill it, and the trimmed material technically belongs to the tree owner. Power line clearance trimming around overhead electric lines is performed by Evergy according to ANSI A300 standards, typically on a 4-year cycle. Storm-damaged trees that pose immediate hazards should be reported to 311 or the Forestry Division.