New Braunfels, TX Tree Protection: Parkway Planting (2026)

Section 118-55 of the subdivision chapter governs landscaping placed in the public right-of-way, including the parkway strip between the curb and the sidewalk. Subsection (a) directs that trees and groundcover be preserved wherever possible and limits new plantings to species on the approved plant list found in the chapter 144 landscape section. Subsection (c) fixes the core planting setback: no tree may go closer than six feet to the street's curb or, where there is no curb, the edge of the street's shoulder. That clearance keeps root systems and trunks away from pavement bases and preserves sight lines for vehicles pulling out of driveways.

Subsection (d) adds a second setback overhead: only ornamental trees named on the chapter 144 plant list may be planted under or within ten lateral feet of an overhead utility wire, since larger canopy species would eventually grow into the line. Subsection (e) mirrors that rule underground, barring any tree within five lateral feet of a water line, sewer line, electric line or other utility line unless the owner has secured the utility provider's written consent first. Subsection (f) then shifts the maintenance burden onto private parties: owners and occupants of property abutting a right-of-way, median, parkway, utility easement or drainage easement tree must maintain it at their own expense and must trim, prune or remove any part that becomes unsafe or hazardous, even though the tree sits on public land.

Subsection (g) separately requires developers and lot owners to keep lots clean to the fire marshal's satisfaction after construction. The section traces to Ordinance No. 2006-84, adopted September 11, 2006.