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1. How can I determine which trees are city trees?

Street trees are planted in two locations along city streets. Some are planted in the “landscape strip,” the open space that runs between the curb and the sidewalk. Where a landscape strip doesn’t exist, street trees are planted behind the sidewalk and are located in the front yard of the property owner. If you are unsure if a tree is a street tree, contact Public Works at (209) 895-8060 or by email at publicworks@ci.patterson.ca.us. A crew member will be happy to verify your city tree.

2. Who is responsible for trimming city trees?

The Urban Forestry Division trims, plants and removes dying, damaged or diseased street trees. Property owners are not permitted to trim street trees. Please contact the Public Works Department at (209) 895-8060, or by email at publicworks@ci.patterson.ca.us for service requests.

3. How do I report a city tree problem?

During normal business hours, Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., call (209) 895-8060 to have a work order submitted. If you have an emergency tree related problem after normal business hours call (209) 895-8000 and select option “9” for the on-call service. Work orders may also be placed online at any time through this link.

4. Who do I contact if I want my city tree evaluated or trimmed?

Please contact the Public Works Department at (209) 895-8060, by email at publicworks@ci.patterson.ca.us or through our online reporting system at link . Staff will be happy to provide information on your street tree or make a site visit to evaluate the tree.

5. Does the city have a routine trimming schedule?

Approximately 17,000 street and park trees are trimmed on a 5 – 7 year cycle. Trees ranking as critical or high priority are scheduled for service first. Trees may be trimmed more frequently depending on the species and growth rate of the tree. Contact the Public Works Department for more information. Exceptions are made for safety hazards.

6. How do I request the planting of a new city tree?

Call the Public Works Department to request a tree. Staff will evaluate your property to see if there is appropriate planting space. Considerations for planting include spacing, proximity to sewer, gas and water service lines, as well as proximity to sidewalks, driveways, streetlights, etc. City tree planting is typically scheduled in the fall and spring.

7. Can I select the type of city tree to be planted?

The city has a master tree list that has been approved by the City Council. Only trees approved for that street will be planted if replacement is necessary. This master street tree list has tree species selected for each street in Patterson.

8. Who is responsible for watering new city trees?

The property owner is responsible for watering young city trees. The first two years are critical and the tree will need to be watered weekly from spring through fall.

9. I have an issue with roots from the city tree. Who is responsible?

The property owner is responsible for damage caused by tree roots and for mitigating root issues on private property. The city may repair damage caused by roots to public improvements such as sidewalk, curb and gutter.

10. When can a city tree be removed?

Normally, a city tree is removed only if it is dead, dying, structurally unsound, or creating a problem that cannot be resolved without causing great harm to the tree. City tree removal requests are processed on a case-by-case basis which includes a site inspection. The decision is made by the City Arborist.

11. I don’t like my city tree. Can it be replaced with another tree?

In most cases, no. Typically, only trees that are dead, dying or structurally unsound will be removed. Contact Public Works at (209) 895-8060 or by email at publicworks@ci.patterson.ca.us if you would like your tree evaluated.

12. Can a city tree be removed because it’s messy?

Generally, no. All trees provide a benefit to the community but there can be a cost associated with the benefit. The cost may be leaf litter, fruit or pod droppings or root issues. In most cases, these are not sufficient reasons to remove a street tree. The city provides a leaf pickup program during the fall.

13. Does the city treat city trees for insects?

The Urban Forestry Division crews treat specific trees by request. When there is a request for pest control, division staff will evaluate each situation to determine if treatment is required. If action is recommended, treatment will be scheduled and the resident will be advised.

14. My street tree is not on the approved street tree list, will the city still maintain it?

The city will perform safety trimming if crews are in the area performing regular maintenance on city approved trees.