Help Keep Our Sidewalks & Driveways Safe & Clear!

Keep Sidewalks Clear

As a reminder to all residents, please take a moment to check the trees, shrubs, and other landscaping around sidewalks on your property. Overgrown vegetation can create safety hazards for pedestrians and obstruct clear passage.

Sidewalks are defined not only as a paved path for pedestrians at the side of a road. The same best practices should also serve as a guide for maintaining the walkways that lead from your driveway to your front door.

Trimming guidelines and best practices

When it comes to trimming trees and maintaining landscaping near sidewalks, there are several common rules and best practices that homeowners should follow. These aim to promote safety, accessibility, and compliance with local regulations:

Maintain Sidewalk Clearance

  • Vertical clearance: Branches should typically be trimmed to allow at least 8 feet of clearance above sidewalks for pedestrian safety. Note: West Chester does not have a published minimum height, however, the average in our surrounding area is 9ft.
  • Horizontal clearance: Shrubs, hedges, and tree branches should not encroach onto the sidewalk from the side. Maintain a clear path of at least the full width of the sidewalk.

Keep Sight Lines Clear

  • Landscaping should not block visibility at driveways, intersections, or for traffic signs.
  • Trim shrubs and trees so they do not obstruct views of oncoming traffic or pedestrian crossings.

      Avoid Trip Hazards

      • Tree roots that uplift or crack sidewalks can be a liability issue. Regularly inspect and manage root systems.

      Respect Property Lines and Easements

      • Don’t plant or allow plants to grow onto public sidewalks, easements, or neighboring property without permission.
      • Check with your local public works or planning department for any setback requirements or planting restrictions.

      Consider ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) Compliance

      Sidewalks must remain fully accessible. Overgrown vegetation must not reduce the usable width of sidewalks or create obstructions for people using wheelchairs or with vision impairments.

      Safety During Trimming

      • Use proper tools and safety equipment.
      • Be mindful of power lines — hire professionals for tree trimming near utilities.
      • Ensure trimmed branches or debris don’t fall onto the sidewalk or street, creating temporary hazards.

      Regular Maintenance Schedule

      • Prune trees and shrubs at least once or twice a year, depending on growth rate.
      • Schedule trimming before the rainy or windy season to prevent broken limbs.

      Thank you for doing your part to keep Providence Manor safe and beautiful!