Parks and Recreation

Trees in urban areas require more attention than forest trees because of their close proximity to people and infrastructure. Proper pruning and care helps:

• Manage risk to people and property
• Promote tree health and longevity
• Maximize aesthetic appeal
• Ensure safe pedestrian and vehicular clearance
• Maintain tree structure and form
• Support routine maintenance for longevity

City arborists are responsible for pruning trees on city-owned or controlled property. Properly pruned trees are healthier, safer, and live longer, enhancing the beauty and safety of Racine’s urban forest.

City arborists perform a variety of care activities, including:

• Pruning
• Watering
• Fertilization
• Aeration
• Mulching
• Root pruning
• Cabling and bracing
• Lightning protection
• Other specialized maintenance

Note: Apart from watering and maintaining mulch, pruning public trees and other maintenance activities require a permit.

See Tree Permits for details.

Off Cycle Pruning – we also conduct ‘off-cycle’ pruning to address pruning needs that can’t wait until the scheduled cycle pruning. Off-cycle pruning is usually limited to high priority needs such as very low branches, branches touching homes, branches blocking street lights or traffic signals, or removal of large dead or dangerous branches. Most off-cycle pruning occurs between April and October.

If you think your tree cannot wait for scheduled cycle pruning, contact our office and request an inspection.