SUMMARY SEC. 8-14

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Sec. 18-14 Vegetation In Alley, Street, or Sidewalk.

Alleys—especially residential alleys—are a common feature in many of our neighborhoods. These alleys are helpful to tree lined streets by routing utility lines behind the property, allowing street trees to grow without utility line interference. However its important to keep these alleys clear for utility trucks and other vehicular traffic.

Alleys/Streets

To keep these alleys accessible, the city of Dallas requires property owners to keep alleyways clear of obstructive foliage and other vegetation. Property owners are required to cut back weeds, grass, and other vegetation (including trees) to allow vehicles and utility trucks unobstructed access to this area.

Specifically, the city ordinance requires homeowners to keep weeds and grass 12 inches or less, and no vegetation (including trees) can hang over the alley or street unless its over 15 feet in height.

Sidewalks

City Ordinance also states that homeowners need to keep vegetation (i.e. trees) at a canopy height of at least 8 feet over the sidewalk. The 8 feet limit may actually be higher if the tree or vegetation interferes with seeing a traffic sign or device (e.g. traffic light). Homeowners are encouraged to learn how to properly prune trees and vegetation to keep a tree healthy, while protecting the safety of pedestrians and drivers.

To learn more on proper tree care, please consider downloading UFAC’s ABCs to Tree Planting guide, or consider signing up for our Citizen Forester classes.

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