Trees, shrubs and other plants play an important role in keeping Bloomington green and safe. Streets, sidewalks, utilities and other areas with similar public uses are known as a “public right-of-way.” These areas are for everyone’s use. To protect public health and safety, it is important to keep public right-of-way areas free of obstructions. Property owners are responsible for maintaining trees and vegetation within the right-of-way bordering their property.
Overgrown trees and shrubs can block a sidewalk or limit visibility of traffic signs, signals, vehicles and pedestrians. When the City receives reports of sidewalk obstructions, staff will inspect the location and issue notices to property owners that include information regarding the obstruction in accordance with City Code 12.03.
How you can help
Trim all plants that are less than four inches behind the edge of the sidewalk.
Trim any branches that are less than eight feet above the sidewalk or less than 12 feet above the street.
Trim or edge back grasses or ground cover that overhangs sidewalks.
Avoid placing items that block sidewalks.
