Pruning Guidelines

Tree and Shrubs Pruning

Well cared for trees and shrubs are a vital part of the beauty and livability of McMinnville. However, when overgrown, they can become a hazard for pedestrians and motorists. Property owners are responsible to maintain trees, shrubs and other vegetation on their property, including vegetation in the planter strip adjacent to the property. The planter strip is the area between curb and the sidewalk. Property owners are also required to maintain vegetation within clear vision areas adjacent to their property. Remember that a permit is required from the McMinnville Planning Department (503.434.7311) to remove any tree that is located in the planting strip (right of way), or to prune more than 20% of the canopy.

Sidewalks and Streets

Trees and shrubs should not obstruct pedestrian or vehicle use of the sidewalk or the street. They should be trimmed a minimum of 8 feet above a sidewalk and all vegetation should kept trimmed off the sidewalk. Trees should be trimmed a minimum of 13 feet over a residential street, 15 feet over a collector street and 18 feet over an arterial street. (click here for diagram)

Traffic and Street Signs

Overgrown trees and shrubs endanger us all when they block the view of traffic signs. Overgrown vegetation can affect safety for vehicles, pedestrians and bicyclists. Property owners should keep trees and shrubs trimmed so as to avoid obscuring street signs and traffic signs such as stop signs or speed signs.

Clear Vision Areas

The clear vision area is an important part of traffic safety for pedestrians, motorists and bicyclists. The clear vision area must be maintained on the corners of properties at the intersection of two streets, a street and an alley, or a street and a railroad. (Click here for clear vision diagram)

Questions?

Residents with questions or concerns should contact McMinnville Public Works at 503.434.7316, or submit a service request here.