Trees in the urban forest can conflict with the infrastructure of the City of Minneapolis. The most frequent examples are listed below along with the Forestry Division’s corresponding procedure. For each of these issues, keep in mind:
- Forestry has the authority to deny a request for such work if it is in the public's best interests.
- In the event that removal is permissible then the property owner must compensate the MPRB for the work. Compensation must be for the value of a removed tree and/or the cost of the work.
- The Director of Forestry shall have the authority to negotiate the rate and amount of compensation.
- After these requirements are met the Forestry Division will facilitate the removal of the tree of concern.
- If a permit is required, the conditions of the permit must be adhered to. Failure to do so will result in corrective action being taken by Forestry at the expense of the property owner.
Commercial Signage
Requests for removal in order to provide visual clearance for commercial signage or other signage of an advertising nature will be reviewed on an individual basis.
Driveway Aprons and Other Construction
Requests for tree removal in order to accommodate the construction of driveway aprons or other projects will be reviewed on an individual basis.
Sewer Lines
The property owner is responsible for repair of the sewer lines. The reason is that defects in the sewer line are what cause tree roots to be allowed to enter the line. The Forestry Division does not remove trees because of blocked sewer lines EXCEPT when the location of the tree prevents the repair of the sewer line. It is the property owner's responsibility to prove that the tree is obstructing the repair of the sewer line. In such a case the property owner must present a copy of the utility connections permit from the Utility Connections Division of the Public Works Department, 612-673-2451, as proof of proposed sewer repairs.
Sidewalks
The Forestry Division does not remove trees for the purpose of sidewalk repair. In situations where tree roots are lifting a sidewalk, it is the property owner's responsibility to repair the sidewalk. Enforcement of this procedure is the responsibility of the Department of Public Works Sidewalk Division. The procedure for protection of the critical root zone by Forestry governs the repair of sidewalks around trees.
Utility Lines
If the function and integrity of utility lines conflicts with the trees growing beneath them, the utility company may request permission for removal. This permission must be obtained from the Forestry Division, which has the authority to enter into an agreement with the utility company whereby the utility company removes the tree and pays for its replacement. In situations where a new utility line is proposed and will directly interfere with existing trees, alternative routes for the utility line will be explored. If it is determined that a tree must be removed to accommodate such a request then the utility company is required to provide compensation for the value of a removed tree and/or the cost of the removal.
Views or Vistas
Requests for removal in order to provide or enhance a view or vista will be reviewed on an individual basis.
