Yards & Trees
Property owners and the Park and Recreation Department share responsibilities for the natural beauty of our neighborhoods.
Boulevard Trees
46.01-46.04 and 64.160
Boulevard is defined as the city right of way, typically between the sidewalk and the curb. Boulevard trees are generally planted by the city as finances would allow. However the person who owns the property bordering the boulevard may obtain a planting permit from the Park Department and plant their own tree(s). The Park Department is responsible for the general maintenance and removal of dead boulevard trees. The bordering property owner is responsible for the ordinary care of the trees, such as watering, minor twig removal, and raking of leaves. Branches overhanging a pedestrian sidewalk should be no lower than 9 feet from the sidewalk and 14 feet clearance over the street.
Contact the Forestry Division for a tree planting permit or boulevard tree maintenance at (507) 328-2515.
The City of Rochester finds that trees and especially shade trees along streets provide numerous community benefits (such as energy savings and health benefits). It is the City’s intent to establish trees on boulevards on public streets in all neighborhoods and all zoning districts within the City.
Boundary Trees
The University of Minnesota Extension Service has a helpful fact sheet on tree law that can be found at: www.myminnesotawoods.umn.edu/2008/12/minnesota-law-and-trees/.
Abatement of Diseased Trees
Sections 6-2-5 & 6-2-6
Property owners are responsible for the removal of diseased trees (i.e.: Dutch elm, oak wilt, Emerald Ash Borer etc.) If the trees are not removed within the timeline specified in the notice, the park department will remove the trees and the costs will be billed or assessed to the property owner.
Tall Grass and Weeds
Chapter 8-5
Grass and weeds in yards and boulevards are to be kept less than 12 inches high. If grass is identified that is in violation of the ordinance an administrative citation shall be mailed to the property owner and a notice will be sent to the property owner. If the property owner fails to comply within 48 hours, the Park Department will have the property mowed and will bill the owner. Exemptions are listed in section Rochester Code Section 8-5-4.
Landscaping
48.05
Applications for natural landscape permits may be filed with the Park Department to allow proposed landscape which includes planting of native grasses that exceed 12 inches in height. For financial assistance to add native plants to your landscape, visit www.rochesterstormwater.com to learn about the Garden Grant Program.
Grass Clippings and Leaves
141
It is unlawful to dispose of grass clippings, leaves and other forms of yard waste in city streets, parks, or other private property without the owner’s permission. Residents should rake from the curb line in and dispose of yard waste appropriately to prevent impacts to area lakes, streams and rivers. Consider adopting a storm drain in your neighborhood at www.adopt-a-drain.org.
Fences, Walls and Hedges
63.126
There are a number of requirements concerning fences, walls and hedges. Please refer to this entire ordinance online prior to construction.
Before You Dig
When starting a digging project you must notify Gopher State One Call before you dig. By contacting Gopher State One Call you will not only follow the law, but this could also help you to avoid costly underground utility damages or even deadly accidents. Call (800) 252-1166.