Dead Tree and Stump Removal : NYC Parks

NYCs Urban Forest > Tree Services > Dead Tree and Stump Removal

Dead trees reported on streets, parks, playgrounds or other public spaces will be inspected and, if appropriate, removed. Parks service pledge to citizens with dead trees in front of their houses is to inspect and remove such trees within 30 days of notification. To report a dead tree, call 311 or use our tree service request system.

Parks makes every effort to preserve and protect trees in the public right-of-way until their health or condition warrants removal. Parks does not remove healthy trees due to infrastructure conflicts with sewer lines or sidewalk concrete. Tree roots rarely damage sound pipes in good condition, and only intrude if they have been afforded access by a break or perforation. The best way to prevent this from occurring is to repair the line with impervious, watertight piping. Visit our Work on or Near Trees page for filing a permit prior to sewer repair. If your sidewalk is damaged, please visit our Sidewalk Repair page.

All stumps remaining from tree removal operations performed by Parks are recorded and registered. Stump removals are dependent on the availability of funding. We currently have a backlog of stumps awaiting removal. If you are a property owner who would like a City-owned stump removed, we have two options for you to consider:

In July 2014, NYC Parks initiated a City-wide tree removal and replacement program. Trained NYC Parks foresters surveyed every tree within the Hurricane Sandy inundation zone to identify trees in poor health and those severely impacted by the storm. An estimated 10,000 trees will be removed and replanted Citywide.

Trees are an integral part of our citys functioning infrastructure and help improve the overall quality of life for all New Yorkers. Trees beautify blocks, increase property values, and cool and clean the air. By shading hot surfaces, trees reduce the formation of ozone, which can trigger respiratory problems in children and the elderly. Trees also reduce storm water runoff and reduce building energy costs. The benefits of New York Citys street trees are valued at $122 million annually. As part of PlaNYC and the MillionTreesNYC program, one million trees will have been planted throughout New York City by 2015.

Tree removals began in July 2014 and will continue through July 2015. All trees will be replanted within twelve months of removal, during the next appropriate planting season. The spring season runs from March through May and the fall season from November through January. Learn more about Parks' street tree planting process.

To report a dead tree or request a new tree planting for your community, submit a Forestry Request or call 311.

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Dead Tree and Stump Removal : NYC Parks