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1. What is the City right-of-way?

The City maintains a right-of-way, which is City property, to contain roadways, curbs, sidewalks, utilities, graded areas and shade trees. Typically, the right-of-way is 50-60 feet wide.  [21.05.07] Trees in the right-of-way are the property of the City. You can also check the Athens County Auditor website for the location of the City right-of-way or City-owned property. You may also contact the City of Athens Code Office for right-of-way information at 740.592.3306. 

 

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2. What do I do if I want to remove a tree or shrub from any public area of the City of Athens?

For non-emergency tree removal requests, complete a tree removal request form along with the reason the tree should be removed (safety concern, tree is diseased, vehicle site distance concern, etc.). The request will be reviewed by the City. 

3. What are the consequences if I remove any tree or shrub from any public area of the City of Athens without the permission from the City?

The person shall either replace the tree with one of similar type and size, as determined by the shade tree commission, or be required to plant at the site of the removal or elsewhere. In addition to the penalties provided by the city code, the City of Athens may institute appropriate civil proceedings to enforce compliance.  In addition, the person shall be deemed guilty of a minor misdemeanor and fined not more than $100.00 for each violation. 

4. Will the City pay to remove a tree or shrub?

Tree removal on private property is the responsibility of the property owner. Tree removal on public property may be completed at the City’s expense if approved by the City Service-Safety Director.

5. What do I do if I want to prune a tree or shrub on any public area of the City of Athens?

For non-emergency tree pruning requests, complete a tree pruning request form along with the reason the tree should be pruned (safety concern, damaging private property, vehicle site distance concern, etc.). The request will be reviewed by the City. 

6. What are the consequences if I prune any tree or shrub on any public area of the City of Athens without the permission from the City?

The person will be deemed guilty of a minor misdemeanor and fined not more than $100.00 for each violation.

7. Will the City pay to prune a tree or shrub?

Tree pruning on private property is the responsibility of the property owner. Tree pruning on public property may be completed at the City’s expense if approved by the City Service-Safety Director.

8. How do I determine if a tree is on any public area?

In most areas, the sidewalk and utility poles are in the public right-of-way. Trees in this area are typically also on City property. You can also check the Athens County Auditor website for the location of the City right-of-way or City-owned property. You may also contact the City of Athens Code Office for right-of-way information at 740.592.3306.

9. What do I do if a tree or tree limb falls on my property/house/car?

You should first contact your insurance company to let them know about the accident. The insurance company will be able to guide you through the process. 

10. Can I prune trees on my property (i.e., not on the City’s right-of-way)?

Yes, although there are recommended pruning techniques that will keep your trees safe and healthy. Contact the City of Athens Shade Tree Commission for recommendations on tree pruning.

11. What do I do if I want to plant a tree or shrub from any public area of the City of Athens?

To plant a tree or shrub, complete a tree planting request form. The request will be reviewed by the City.