Can I move or remove a City tree for a new driveway, walkway, utility, or streetlight?
First, ask the City to evaluate the tree. The City removes trees that are dead, dying, or what they judge to be in a hazardous condition. If a City owned tree seems to be “in your way,” try rethinking your design; perhaps you can work around the tree – reverse the locations of the house and driveway, for example. In some cases, the City will allow you to remove a tree if you plant several others. However, don’t expect the City to be sympathetic to a trade unless you’ve exhausted the alternatives and have a serious issue. A large tree represents a significant investment and provides a canopy that several small trees won’t duplicate for many years.
