Street and Bridge crews are responsible for repairs and maintenance in the city’s right-of-way (ROW), including public roads, alleys, sidewalks, multi-use trails and public trees. But did you know property owners are responsible for maintaining their trees and all other vegetation to the edge of the street or alley? To ensure ease of mobility and safety for all Austin residents, it is important to keep these areas free of obstructions. When notified, the City will prune or remove trees that pose a hazard to the public (dead, diseased, low limbs) and trees or limbs downed by storms. Crews and City contractors also perform routine mowing of medians and prune public trees along selected routes.
Your cooperation is needed! Streets, sidewalks, and other public rights of way are for everyone’s use. Property owners are responsible for their private trees and all other vegetation in the public right-of-way next to their property. Overgrown vegetation is a safety hazard and limits the use of sidewalks, trails, streets and alleys. It further threatens public safety when vegetation blocks the view of traffic signs, signals, vehicles, or cyclists. Trimming vegetation and caring for your trees are effective ways residents can enhance neighborhood safety.
Prune your trees and trim or remove any vegetation that obstructs or grows into sidewalks, streets or alleys. Use the following quick guidelines to help keep the right-of-way clear:
Do you have questions about right-of-way vegetation maintenance? Learn more.
Watch the Public Service Announcement video here.
Development Services Department | Community Trees | Austin’s urban forest is made up of trees, vegetation and other components that are invaluable to the wellbeing and identity of our community. Explore and learn more about this growing resource.
Dial 3-1-1 or use the 311 app by submitting 'Other' to report concerns about trees and vegetation in the public right of way.