How close can you plant trees to the road?

Planting trees along roads is a great way to improve the scenery and provide shade to motorists and pedestrians alike. However, it is important to plant trees at a safe distance from the road to ensure the safety of everyone who uses that road. In this article, we will discuss the factors that affect how close you can plant trees to the road and provide some general guidelines to follow.

Factors that affect how close you can plant trees to the road

There are several factors that you need to consider when planning to plant trees along a road. These factors can affect how close you can plant trees to the road and include:

The width of the road: The wider the road, the further away you can plant trees from the road. This is because wider roads often have higher speed limits and require more space for automobiles and pedestrians to manoeuvre safely.

The speed limit of the road: The higher the speed limit, the further you should plant the trees from the road. This is because higher speeds increase the level of danger to motorists and pedestrians in the case of accidents involving trees located too close to the road.

Local regulations: Local government regulations differ on how close trees can be planted to a road. It is important to know and abide by these regulations to avoid any legal issues.

General guidelines for planting trees along roads

Here are some general guidelines to follow when planting trees along roads:

Plant at least 20-30 feet away from the road: This should be the minimum distance to ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians in the case of an accident. However, the exact distance may vary depending on the width of the road and the speed limit.

Choose the appropriate tree species: Choose trees that do not have invasive roots that can damage the road or nearby infrastructure. Trees with shallow roots like cherry, birch, and dogwood are good options.

Prune regularly: Prune the trees regularly to ensure that they do not grow too close to the road or obstruct the view of motorists or pedestrians.

Ensure proper maintenance: Properly maintain the trees, including regular watering, to ensure their health and longevity.

Conclusion

Planting trees along roads provides many benefits, but it is important to do so at a safe distance to avoid any potential hazards. By considering factors like the road's width, speed limit, and local regulations, you can safely plant trees that will enhance the beauty of the roadside while ensuring the safety of motorists and pedestrians.