Janna Rankin Scharf, GRI, CLHMS, SFR - Coeur d'Alene, Idaho Real Estate
I thought it was interesting to learn that Coeur d'Alene has a forest of "street trees" managed by the Urban Forestry department of the Parks Department. Did you know that it is the responsibility of every property owner to assist in the care of our city's trees?
Coeur d'Alene's Urban Forestry ordinance sets tree care standards and gives guidelines for the care and maintenance of all public trees and shrubs.
Public trees include all those growing in the city rights of way such as the grassy area between the sidewalk and curb.
On those streets without a sidewalk, the city could own a right of way of 4 to over 20 feet inside your property. The Urban Forestry department can check your address if you aren't sure where their easement ends. The city doesn't have tree crews so it relies on abutting property owners to assist in performing tree maintenance activities. Beware though, the city requires a free tree permit before you can work on city trees. The permit comes with information that is important for you to know, such as importance of matching tree characteristics to the site and pruning techniques.
The city requires a seven foot clearance over the sidewalk, and a 14 foot clearance over streets. Intersections and street signs need not be obstructed. Removal of street trees is allowed only if the tree is deteriorating, poses a hazard, or is causing a sidewalk or traffic problem.
Abutting property owners can choose to hire a city-licensed tree service to do the work, and a list is available from the Urban Forestry Division at City Hall, 710 E. Mullan Avenue. They can also provide you with other resources and brochures on the care and maintenance of public trees. You can check out the Urban Forestry section of the City's website or contact the Urban Forestry Coordinator, at 208-769-2266.
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