Frequently Asked Questions

No. The majority of street trees are managed by the City but adjacent property owners have responsibility for maintenance. The City does very limited maintenance on trees in the right of way easement. The City’s maintenance is generally limited to immediate hazards or obstructions to the traveled portion of the right of way: removal of downed branches that block the sidewalk or roadway, removal of trees that fail in wind or snow storms, trimming branches away from street lights, etc. Routine and/or non-emergency pruning and/or removal is the property owner’s responsibility. The City Street or Parks Department maintains street trees planted by the City along some arterial streets and adjacent to City properties such as City Hall. The Parks Department maintains street trees in the Central Business District that were planted by the City.

Permission to remove a live, healthy street tree requires the permission of the City Council. If a removal requires the use of the City right of way, whether on the right of way or on private property, a Public Works Permit may be required, to ensure the safety of vehicular and pedestrian traffic on the right of way, and protect against damage to City streets or infrastructure.

Onsite composting, garbage company yard debris bins, and hauling leaves to the Kittitas County Compost Center are excellent ways to manage leaves that fall to the ground in October and November. When leaves are blown or swept into the street, the city sweepers attempt to keep up with the high volume but find our equipment is overtaxed by taking additional trips to pick up the leaves that could have been managed as recommended.