How does the City decide that a street tree should be removed?

In order to maintain an economically sustainable program, we must preserve existing street trees whenever possible. Although mitigation through pruning or other techniques is always preferable, the Urban Forester may determine that a street tree needs removed if the tree:

  • has any identified condition, disease or defect that is expected to create a hazard for those using the right-of-way area or adjacent properties.
  • is diseased or infected by a pest that is likely to spread to other trees or plants.
  • is considered invasive or otherwise destructive to the surrounding environment.
  • was planted in an inappropriate site and is actively causing conflicts with other infrastructure such as sidewalks, overhead primary electric lines, etc.
  • or, is in conflict with approved plans for renovation, development or other construction activities.

In all cases, a tree will not be removed if there is an available mitigation option such as pruning, root pruning, or other treatment.

Show All Answers

1. Who owns trees in the tree lawn?
2. Who is responsible for managing street trees?
3. Can I remove a street tree myself?
4. Can I prune a street tree myself?
5. Can I plant a street tree myself or hire a contractor to do it?
6. Can I request that the City plant a tree in front of my house?
7. Can I help select the species of tree that will be planted in front of my property?
8. I just built a new house in Marysville. What do I need to know about street trees?
9. How do I report street tree storm damage or other hazardous condition?
10. Can the Urban Forester answer questions about trees on my own property?
11. What trees are approved for planting in City right-of-ways?
12. How does the City decide that a street tree should be removed?
13. Tree roots are lifting my sidewalk, can the City remove the tree and fix the sidewalk?
14. Tree roots are infiltrating my sewer or drain lines, what can be done?