As leaves fall and autumn continues, the City of Ottumwa is reminding property owners to check trees, shrubs and other vegetation to help keep streets, alleys and sidewalks safe and accessible.
Under Chapter 34, Article I, Section 34-5 of the City of Ottumwa Code of Ordinances, property owners whose lots border streets, alleys or sidewalks are responsible for trimming overhanging branches to maintain the required clearance.
Branches must be kept at least:
- 10 feet above sidewalks
- 14 feet above streets and alleys
The city also handles the trimming or removal of dead, diseased or dying limbs and branches growing within street and alley rights-of-way. In some cases, this work may require the removal of an entire tree.
Property owners are also reminded of Section 34-6, which requires shrubs, bushes and other vegetation near intersections and along the inside of curves to be trimmed to no more than 3.5 feet above the street or alley. These requirements help preserve drivers’ lines of sight and improve roadway safety.
The city encourages residents to inspect vegetation on their properties this fall and make any necessary adjustments to help maintain safe travel for motorists and pedestrians throughout Ottumwa.
Source: City of Ottumwa Code of Ordinances, Chapter 34, Article I, Sections 34-5 and 34-6.
