Managing Trees & Plantings

Trees & Plantings on Public Property

Trees that are within the street right-of-way or on City property are owned and maintained by the City. Generally speaking, this includes all trees located between the curb and the sidewalk. If a City owned tree encroaches onto your property in an unsafe manner, contact the Forestry Division at 414-302-8811. At any time and for non-emergency issues, you may contact the City at Let Us Help to ask a question, report a concern, or share a suggestion.

Trees & Plantings on Private Property

Trees located on private property that extend into the City right-of-way must be trimmed to a height of 7 1/2 feet above any City sidewalk, and 13 feet above any street, alley or roadway.

The Forestry Division will provide notification to property owners in the event of hazardous plant material or obstructions to the public right-of-way. It is the responsibility of the property owner, upon notification and at personal expense, to remove or cause the removal of any and all obstructions or hazards within a period of thirty days.

The Superintendent of Forestry may inspect any tree on private property. If a tree, hedge, or branch is diseased or dangerous, the Superintendent of Forestry may issue an order to remove. Failure to comply with the order will result in the City removing the tree at the property owner's expense.