The Shade Tree Commission regulates trees within the public rights-of-way, under authority of Chapter 25 of the Codified Ordinances. Among regulations enforced are the minimum height of limbs above public streets, alleys and sidewalks, tree planting and removal with the rights-of-way (primarily in the area between the curb and sidewalk) and pruning of branches and roots. No permit is required to trim and cut dead branches and limbs, or to maintain the minimum height of branches 14 feet above public streets and alleys and eight (8) feet above public sidewalks. Permits are required for planting and removal of trees within the township rights-of-way, trimming and pruning other than for maintaining the minimum required heights, or site work that will affect the tree (such as sidewalk replacement). Permit applications are available on the township website. See the township website under Shade Tree for information.For the past several years, the Shade Tree Commission has planted shade trees in township parks and in the tree lawn in various township locations. The Commission has a limited budget allocated for the planting of new trees, and therefore, all requests may not be honored. Requests for plantings, however, may be honored during future plantings.
