Downed or Damaged Trees and Branches
How do I report a downed or damaged public tree?
If you see a boulevard or park tree that is down, leaning, has broken branches, hanging limbs, or any defects you perceive to be unsafe, please report it to Saint Paul Forestry at 651-266-6400 or forestry@ci.stpaul.mn.us. Be ready to provide the address for the tree and the nearest cross street. For after hours emergencies, such as a downed tree blocking a roadway, contact 651-266-9700.
Trees that are damaged may be in contact with an energized wire. Touching the tree or anything near it – such as a fence, puddle, car, etc. – can cause electricity to be transmitted through your body which could result in serious injury or death. If you suspect that a tree is in contact with an energized wire, stay away and call 911 to report the location of the tree.
What should I do with downed trees or branches on my property?
Property owners are responsible for disposing of downed trees, branches, logs, stumps, or wood chips from trees on their property. Private property storm debris can be disposed at Ramsey County’s yard waste sites. You may also have a licensed tree care company remove tree debris. Note: On occasion, if a severe storm creates an extraordinary large amount of tree debris, the Mayor of Saint Paul may declare an emergency and give special instructions to help you get rid of your private debris. If an emergency is declared, more information will be posted here with instructions assisting property owners.
When can I expect to see downed or damaged trees and branches removed?
Removal times are based on the amount of storm damage citywide and the priority of the damaged tree or branch. When severe storms knock over or damage public trees, Saint Paul Forestry responds with the following priorities:
- Clear tree debris from areas with life threatening situations and/or search and rescue missions.
- Clear tree debris within the immediate vicinity of all major emergency response centers.
- Streets near power corridors will be cleared of debris to facilitate the restoration of power to those locations. The restoration of power is done at the discretion of Xcel Energy.
- Clear tree debris from major arterial streets.
- Clear tree debris from residential streets.
- Remove trees made dangerous due to storm damage.
- Remove trees on structures.
- Clear tree debris from alley ways.
- Remove destroyed but non-threatening trees.
- Clear tree debris in parks.
- Remove less threatening hanging limbs.
- Stumps left over from storm damaged trees are typically removed in the next calendar year after the storm.
