Keep Sidewalks Clear: Overhanging Trees and Responsible Tree Planting

As summer approaches, the George Municipality reminds all residents to maintain their gardens and trees to ensure sidewalks and public spaces remain safe, accessible, and pedestrian-friendly.
In accordance with the George Municipality Tree Management Policy, residents are advised of the following responsibilities and regulations:

Tree Maintenance and Safety
Property owners must trim or prune any trees or plants that extend over property boundaries onto sidewalks, streets, or public spaces.
Vegetation must not obstruct street signs, streetlights, intersections, or pedestrian pathways, including access for prams, wheelchairs, and mobility devices.
Overhanging branches or encroaching plants that make sidewalks difficult to navigate must be trimmed back to ensure safe passage.
Planting Trees on Sidewalks and Municipal Land
Residents may plant trees on sidewalks or street boundaries, but only with written approval from the Director for Community Services or their delegated authority.
Once planted on municipal land, trees become municipal property, but maintenance—including pruning and root management—remains the responsibility of the property owner.
Unauthorized planting or pruning of trees on municipal land is prohibited and may result in fines or removal of the tree.
Tree Removal and Pruning Restrictions
No person may prune or remove a tree on municipal land without prior written approval.

Trees may only be pruned for sound arboricultural reasons, such as:
• Obstruction of pedestrian or vehicle movement
• Damage to structures
• Interference with traffic sight lines or solar devices
• Complaints based on leaf shedding, shade, view obstruction, or nuisance from birds/insects are not valid reasons for pruning or removal.

Protected and Champion Trees
Trees listed as Champion Trees or protected under the National Forests Act may not be pruned or removed without a license from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment.
These trees are protected due to their age, size, cultural, historic, or ecological value.

Emergency Situations
In emergencies (e.g., fallen trees posing danger), the Municipal Parks and Recreation Department may intervene, including on private property, with authorization from the Director: Community Services and in coordination with Disaster Risk Management.

The Municipality promotes tree awareness and education, including participation in greening initiatives and heritage tree protection. Residents are encouraged to engage with the Parks and Recreation Department for guidance on tree planting, species selection, and maintenance best practices.

For tree-related queries, planting permissions, or maintenance concerns, please contact 044 802 2900. Let’s work together to keep George’s streets safe, green, and accessible for all!