How Far Can You Plant a Tree From the Street?

Planting trees in urban areas is essential to mitigate the effects of climate change while improving the quality of life for city dwellers. Besides adding beauty and shade, trees help to absorb carbon dioxide, reduce air and noise pollution, and lower temperatures. However, when it comes to planting trees near the street, you need to keep some rules in mind. Let's explore the regulations and recommendations for planting trees near streets and sidewalks.

What are the Regulations?

The regulations for planting trees near streets and sidewalks depend on the jurisdiction or the municipality you live in. For example, the International Society of Arboriculture has developed guidelines for planting, care, and management of urban trees, but these are not legally binding. In general, you need to consider the following:

Check with your city or county government for any ordinances, permits or regulations regarding planting and maintaining trees along streets and sidewalks. These can vary considerably, from tree species selection to placement and maintenance practices.

Consult with utility companies, such as power and gas companies, to make sure that the tree planting does not interfere with their infrastructure. They will advise about below ground and above ground utilities issues, ensuring that their equipment and lines are not impacted, and that the tree itself will not be affected by proximity to the utility lines. It is a good idea to have a professional arborist inspect the planting site before proceeding.

Many urban areas require that trees near streets may only be planted or removed with a permit or authorization from the local government. Check with your local government or planning department before planting trees along, or in proximity to, a street.

Ensure the trees are planted a minimum distance away from street corners, traffic lights, and stop signs to guarantee clear sightlines for motorists.

Finally, consider the choice of tree species as this can impact the placement of trees, particularly with respect to proximity to utility lines. Some trees grow exceptionally tall, have extensive root systems or require a significant spread of limbs which make them unsuitable for planting close to streets. As an example, Norway Maple trees have wide canopies but shallow roots, making them suitable for planting as street trees.

What are the Recommendations?

While regulations exist to ensure safe street planting and upkeep of trees, recommendations can help take the guesswork out of tree planting for homeowners and communities. Following are some of the key recommendations for planting trees near streets and sidewalks:

Plant trees at a minimum of 2 to 4 feet from the edge of the curb, or pavement. This ensures enough space for the tree's root network and the concrete, reducing curb damage and ensuring adequate space for the tree to expand roots and mature without impacting the adjacent sidewalks, driving lanes, and utilities.

Allow at least 10 feet of overhead clearance for the tree branches to avoid interference with passing vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles. Large trees with overhanging limbs also pose a risk during wind and storms, causing branches to fall and damage cars, buildings, pedestrians, or pets. The clearance for the tree canopy may also vary based on species, with some species containing narrower, more compact crowns such as Hawthorns, ideal for planting as street trees.

Place trees at sites where they can get adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients. Urban environments can present environmental stressors such as pollution and compacted soils that can impact tree growth and health. Ensure that the planting site has adequate soil depth, aeration, moisture and avoid exposing the tree to pesticide exposure, excess leaf litter or irrigation runoff.

Select species that are appropriate for the site conditions, including soil quality, sun exposure, and proximity to utilities. Some tree species are more tolerant of urban stressors such as drought, air pollution, dust, wind or salt exposure than others. Local nurseries and tree care professionals can provide advice on species selection and planting locations.

Planting trees along the street can help provide shade, sequester carbon, reduce ambient temperatures, and increase property values. Remember to follow the regulations and recommendations to ensure that the planting is safe, easy to maintain, and beneficial to the environment and the community. With a little care and attention, you can beautify your community and create a healthier environment for all.