Parks and Recreation

Urban trees provide shade, beauty, cleaner air, and safety, but they are more vulnerable than forest trees because of their proximity to people, vehicles, and infrastructure. Protecting trees during road, sidewalk, and curb projects is critical to ensure they remain healthy and continue to provide benefits for years to come.

Why Tree Protection Matters

• Prevents damage to roots, trunks, and branches, which can shorten a tree’s lifespan
• Reduces safety hazards from weakened or unstable trees
• Preserves the environmental and aesthetic benefits of mature and newly planted trees
• Helps avoid costly tree removal or replacement due to construction damage

Trees need special care during road, sidewalk, and curb projects. The Forestry Division works closely with the Department of Public Works (DPW) to prevent damage and ensure proper planning.

Key Points for Residents:

• Tree Protection Zones (TPZ): Areas around trees are off-limits to vehicles, equipment, and materials.
• Permits: A tree permit is required for any work in a TPZ.
  • Unauthorized tree removal or damage may result in fines.
• Sidewalks and Curbs:
  • Roots interfering with sidewalks are carefully managed; shaving panels is preferred over full replacement.
  • Stone bases under sidewalks can redirect root growth and improve drainage.
  • All sidewalk issues are handled by a DPW Engineer.
    • Residents with sidewalk concerns should contact DPW at 262-636-9484.
• Trunk and Root Protection: Trunks and roots near work sites may be shielded with fencing or barriers as directed by the City Forester

Protecting trees during construction maintains Racine’s urban forest and ensures healthy, safe, and beautiful trees for generations.

If you notice a tree that may be at risk from construction or nearby work, you can report it to the City of Racine:

1. Call the PRCS Office: 262-636-9131
2. Submit Online: Click the icon below to submit the tree information directly to PRCS for quick entry into the Forestry Division work order system:
   Submit Tree at Risk Information

When reporting, please include:

• The address of the tree
• The specific location (e.g., “north side of the front of the house” or “on the side street, south of the driveway”)
• Optional: any details about nearby construction that may impact the tree

PRCS staff will enter a work order and assign a priority code so the Forestry Division can address the tree promptly.

Using the online form is the fastest way to ensure your report reaches the Forestry Division efficiently.

• Damaging or removing trees without permission may result in forfeitures.
• Fines cover the costs of tree removal, replacement, and restoration.
• These are in addition to any construction-related penalties and ensure proper compliance with city tree protection standards.