When construction happens next door, your trees can feel the impact, especially underground. Most tree roots grow close to the surface and can stretch well beyond your property line, so digging, heavy equipment and soil changes can all cause stress. A little disturbance is usually fine, but too much can harm or even kill a tree.
Simple Ways to Keep Your Trees Safe
• Know what’s happening next door. Ask for the approved construction plan so you can see where digging and heavy equipment will be.
• Get familiar with your tree’s roots. In our area, most roots are in the top 24 inches of soil. A quick rule of thumb: the number of inches around the trunk is about how many feet the tree’s most important roots spread.
• Call a certified arborist if needed. If a big part of the root zone might be disturbed, an arborist can check your tree’s health and recommend steps to protect it.
• Talk with your neighbor. Healthy trees add value, provide shade, and support wildlife. A quick conversation can help everyone understand why they’re worth protecting.
• Help your tree recover if it’s been damaged. Water and mulch the root area, and avoid extra treatments unless an arborist says they’re needed.
New Webpage and How To Submit a Complaint
For more details, visit Land Development Services’ new Protecting Your Trees webpage. You can also learn what to expect during neighboring construction, such as:
- Normal construction noise during allowed hours
- Equipment staying on the construction site
- Dust being controlled and streets kept clean
- Dumpsters remaining within the work area
If you observe a potential violation at a construction site, submit a complaint using PLUS.
Keep your trees happy and healthy all year round!
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