Urban Forestry - Trees in the ROW

Trees provide a Multitude of Benefits
Trees and other vegetation throughout the City collectively provide an Urban Forest which greatly benefits the entire City of Port Townsend.
A few key benefits are:

• Increased appeal, enjoyment & property value
• Effective Wind and Sound Barriers
• Stormwater Management & Filtration
• Wildlife Habitat & Food source
• Multifaceted Environmental Benefits: fight climate change by sequestering carbon, filter air and water, mitigate heat waves, convert CO2 to oxygen, and more!

The City manages the Urban Forest in the right of way with the goals of tree preservation and forest health. Care and pruning under supervision of a certified arborist can help save trees that would otherwise be removed. Permits are required for any tree work in the right of way.

The Right Tree in the Right Place
Some species may provide great habitat and wind break in a greenbelt location, but block views and grow into power lines if planted on a corner uptown. It’s critical to consider species growth habits and mature size when choosing a location for a new tree.

The Right Tree in the Right Place

• Will not cause safety or line of sight issues for drivers
• Will not interfere with utilities
• Will not substantially block views
• Will not block use of sidewalk or roads

The above photo shows a short tree which is a good fit for under Power Lines.

The Wrong Tree in the Wrong Place
Sometimes a tree is not a good fit for the chosen location.

• Tall growing trees should not be planted under power lines.
• Bushy trees should not be planted near corners because they can cause safety issues by blocking drivers’ line of sight.
• Deciduous trees should not be planted next to storm drains; the leaves can clog the grates and lead to flooding.
• No vegetation may interfere with free use of the sidewalk or roadway, and must be continually maintained to prevent blocking.
   

The above photos show a tall tree in the Power Lines, and an overgrown bush blocking the sidewalk.

Removing Trees
While the City discourages removal of trees, it is sometimes necessary. If the tree is in the wrong place, or if the tree is dead, dying, diseased or dangerous it must be removed. Sometimes pruning can resolve the issue which is preferred over removal, and performed under advisement by a certified arborist to ensure tree health.

The above photo shows trees on private property that still require a permit to remove.

I Want to Plant a Tree
Great! The City generally encourages the planting of trees. The City will review all planting requests to ensure the right tree is planted in the right place to avoid future problems as the tree matures. See the preapproved tree list.

No-Fee Permits
All work in the City Right of Way requires a permit; most vegetation work will qualify for a no‐fee permit. The City will review requests for new planting or replanting to help ensure long-term success of the newly planted trees. The City will review removal and pruning requests with the goal of tree retention and benefit for the neighborhood and City.

The above photo shows volunteers planting a rain garden in the ROW.