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Boulevard Tree Guide

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1. Why does the Forestry staff trim the boulevard trees so high?

There are three primary reasons that trees are cut high:

1. Safety - Workers try to keep all tree branches extending over the street at least 14- to 16-feet above the ground. This decreases the danger of car accidents because of reduced visibility due to overhanging branches, making sure drivers can see oncoming cars, pedestrians, and traffic signs clearly. We also want to prevent damage to trees caused by trucks clipping branches as they pass under them, keep the sidewalks clear for pedestrian traffic and keep the trees clear of power, telephone and other utility lines.

2. Trimming cycle - With over 124,000 trees to take care of, it can be a long time before a Forestry crew can return to trim a tree again. With limited staff and funding, the time between tree trimmings may be up to 13 years. That means trimmers have to cut enough to keep branches at a safe height, not just for now, but for the next 13 years.

3. Tree's health and shape - Since Forestry may not be able to return for up to 13 years to trim the tree again, it is necessary to plan for the future of the trees health and shape by removing undesirable branches now to preserve the longtime beauty of the tree.

2. Can I plant a tree on the Boulevard?

While residents are encouraged to add to and maintain the urban forest, city ordinance requires a free written permit from the Forestry Office before any work takes place on a boulevard tree. Call the Forestry Office at (651) 632-5129 to request a Forestry Tree Permit.

3. Why do I need a permit?

Forestry selects species and tree sizes most likely to survive and least likely to cause problems in that location. Forestry can also check for underground utilities and make spacing recommendations so each boulevard tree has room to grow, while also providing residents with a tree which will grow well under the existing conditions and not interfere with any utilities.

4. When is the City going to plant boulevard trees in my area?

Please refer to the Planting Schedule Map to find out when your boulevard will be planted.

Additionally, we will be accepting requests from residents whose homes fall outside the current year's planting area. You may make a request via phone or email. Forestry staff will survey your boulevard to determine if it is suitable for a new tree. Keep in mind, that even if you have had a boulevard tree in the past, your request is not a guarantee for a new tree. Street reconstruction, street lights, yard trees that have grown and utility conflicts may prevent proper spacing or room for a new boulevard tree to grow.

Requests will not be taken for a specific type of tree. In order to reduce maintenance and trimming costs for trees, as well as to provide continuity of appearance on each street, individual blocks are planted with the same type of trees. Tree planting will usually occur in the spring, between April 1 and June 15, but may occur in the fall, between September 15 and November 15 at the City's option. Trees are planted by a contractor and are guaranteed for one year.

Up to 200 qualifying requests will be accepted.

Contact Chris Boche at (651) 632-5129 for more information. Planting Schedule Map

5. How do I take care of the trees on my Boulevard?

Although boulevard trees are owned by the City, you have an important relationship with them. They add value to your property and you, in turn, are asked to assist with everyday maintenance. Please care for boulevard trees by:

Watering them and protecting them from harm.

Consulting with the Forestry Office before using chemicals such as weed killer or fertilizer near the tree.

Maintaining a 4-6 inch deep by 3 foot diameter of wood chips or mulch cover at the base of every new tree.

Keeping weed whips and lawn mowers away from the base of trees.

6. A tree on my boulevard has been damaged, what do I do?

Damaged trees need special care. To report any hazards or damage to tree due to weather, please call the Forestry Office at (651) 632-5129 weekdays from 7:00 am - 3:30 pm.

If a tree-related emergency occurs after normal business hours, call the Department of Public Works Street Maintenance Section at (651) 292-6600. To report vandalism or vehicular accidents involving damage to trees, please call the Saint Paul Police at (651) 291-1111.

7. I need a tree or stump on the boulevard removed, who does that?

The Forestry Unit removes boulevard trees as a part of its normal activities. Beginning in 2006, boulevard stumps will also be removed as a part of the tree removal process. Free permits are still available to property owners who want immediate removal of old stumps on the boulevard. If you have any questions, please contact Forestry at(651) 632-5129.

8. What happens to the waste from the trimmings and removals?

The city saves thousands of dollars in landfill costs each year by recycling debris from trimming, tree removal operations and community cleanups. Each year Forestry recycles approximately 12,000 tons of wood into chips, mulch, and other products. Other wood products may be purchased. Call the Pig's Eye Wood Recycling Center at (651) 772-7981.

Prior to the opening of the Pig's Eye Wood Recycling Center, damaged and diseased trees were disposed of in metropolitan landfills. This method was costly. It was also an inefficient use of landfill space since wood waste is compacts less than other solid wastes.

In 1976, in an effort to more efficiently and economically dispose of its wood waste, the City of Saint Paul developed what is now known as the Pig's Eye Wood Recycling Center.

Potential Uses for Recycled Wood Products:

Landscaping: Attractive in gardens, parks, play areas, and on trails; Inhibits weed growth and preserves soil moisture

A Natural Heat Source: Firewood heats a home without using electricity

Bedding for Animals: Eliminates odors and naturally absorbs to keep floors dry

Composting: Adds valuable nutrients to the soil

9. I think my the trees on my boulevard are sick, should I do something about that?

Contact the Forestry Office at (651) 632-5129 to report your concerns and request Forestry services. Or, download the "Citizen Request for Forestry Service" form, fill out and submit. Someone from the Forestry staff will inspect the boulevard tree(s) and report back to you.

10. When will trees in my area be trimmed?

Please refer to the Tree Trimming Schedule map. Tree Trimming Schedule

11. I have a different question, where do I go?

If you need further information, or if your question was not answered here, please contact the Forestry Office at (651) 632-5129.