Trees by the street

Some Indianapolis homes have a tree in the strip between the sidewalk and the curb. That strip is often public right-of-way, so the tree may not be yours to remove, even though it sits in front of your house.

Check before cutting

Contact the city through the Mayor's Action Center before you cut, trim hard or remove a tree there. source They can tell you who owns it and what is allowed. Outside Indianapolis, in towns like Carmel, Fishers or Greenwood, ask your town office.

Why it matters

• Removing a public tree without approval can cause problems with the city.
• The city may handle some dead or hazardous street trees itself.
• Some neighborhoods, like historic districts, have extra rules on trees.

Signs a street tree needs attention

• Dead limbs over the sidewalk or street
• Cracks or a cavity in the trunk
• Roots lifting the sidewalk
• Mushrooms at the base, which can mean rot
• Thin leaves at the top, common in dying ash

Near the wires

Tree on a power line? Stay back at least 30 feet and call 911 or your utility.

Street trees often grow under the main lines. AES Indiana serves most of Indianapolis; ask them about trees near their lines. source

If the city says it is yours

A private tree by the street is your call, but crews still have to manage traffic and the sidewalk. Ask the tree company whether they handle cones and signs, and whether any city permit is needed to block part of the street.

Replanting

If a street tree comes down, ask the city about replanting rules. Small species fit better under lines, and some areas list trees that are allowed. A tree planted with lines in mind saves trimming later.

What to tell a tree company

• Whether the city has confirmed ownership
• How close the tree is to lines and the street
• Whether parked cars can be moved on work day

Sidewalk damage

Roots from street trees often lift sidewalk slabs. Ask the city who repairs the walk before cutting any roots, since cutting big roots can kill or weaken the tree. A weakened street tree can then lean toward the road in the next storm.