Monday, January 05, 2009

St. Augustine Record: Low tree limbs must be trimmed

Low tree limbs must be trimmed

St. Augustine city staff to sweep for encroachments

From Staff
Publication Date: 01/05/09


St. Augustine's city staff has just announced that they will check city roadways this week to ensure that tree canopies aren't hanging too low over traffic lanes, making it dangerous for large vehicles, such as fire trucks, trash trucks or school buses, to pass under.

If a tree limb is found to be too low, the city will give the homeowner the option of taking care of the problem. Then, if nothing is done, city crews will take action and remove the limb.

Many St. Augustine streets are known for the lush trees that line them, but a state law mandates how low trees can hang over streets.

Property owners must clear limbs and tree branches from the public right-of-way at least 8 feet over sidewalks and at least 14 feet over roadways.

City crews will perform "sweeps" of neighborhoods over the coming weeks, and if an encroachment is found the property owner will receive a letter.

If the owner does not correct the problem, either by hiring a contractor or doing the work themselves, city workers will trim the tree within 45 days.


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