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Regulations / 311 / Overgrown Tree/Branches
Overgrown street tree in NYC: how to ask Parks to prune it
Trees & Parks · NYC Parks · 311 service type
NYC Parks does not take requests for routine pruning. You can ask for pruning if the branches are dead or damaged, block street lights, traffic signs or signals, block the street or sidewalk, damage property, or hit power or phone lines. (311 KA-01794)
How to file
- In 311, open Tree Pruning (311 KA-01794).
- Pick the path that fits: Blocking Sidewalk or Street, Blocking Street Light, Blocking Traffic Sign or Signal, Dead Branch, Hitting Building, or Hitting Power/Phone/Cable Lines.
- The City is not responsible for trees on private property. (311 KA-01794)
Danger or wires
For life-threatening emergencies, call 911. If a tree is in electrical wires, contact the Con Edison Pruning Division at (718) 802-6551. Parks crews do not prune around high-voltage power lines. (NYC Parks)
What happens after you file
Parks reviews the request. Parks prunes street trees on a cycle, and takes requests only for the conditions above. (311 KA-01794)
Evidence tips
- A photo of the tree, the branch and the house number.
- Say which condition it is: dead branch, blocking a light or sign, hitting the building or hitting wires.
Related guides
FAQ
Will Parks prune a tree because it is big?
No. Parks does not take requests for routine pruning. It prunes on a cycle. (311 KA-01794)
A branch hits my building. Can I report it?
Yes. Use the "Hitting Building" path. (311 KA-01794)
Is the tree on private property covered?
No. The City is not responsible for trees on private property. (311 KA-01794)
Can I prune a street tree myself?
Only trained and certified Citizen Pruners can legally prune low branches. (311 KA-01794)