Pierre, S.D. –The City of Pierre is reminding property owners to get their trees trimmed before the end of the month.
Pierre city ordinance requires that all tree limbs be at least eight feet above the sidewalk and at least twelve feet above the street. After October 1, city crews will begin trimming trees that are out of compliance, and expenses will be charged to the owner or renter of the property.
Because low-hanging limbs throughout the community had damaged several city and emergency response vehicles, in August, the City Commission took action to enforce the tree ordinance and apply fees accordingly.
The tree trimming fee schedule as approved by the Pierre City Commission is:
• $125 minimum
• $500 an hour
• $42 for 5 minutes
• 5-minute billing increment after the initial 15 minutes
Tom Farnsworth, City Parks and Recreation Director said that it appears the community members are responding responsibly to the ordinance.
“As soon as the City Commission took action to enforce the ordinance, we started a public education campaign,” Farnsworth said. “I believe the message is getting through. In the last month or so, I have witnessed a number of people trimming their trees into compliance.”
Farnsworth went on to say that the City is also in the process of inspecting trees it’s responsible for maintaining and trimming those as necessary.
For people who plan to trim their own trees, measuring poles are available at City Hall. The poles are available for a $20 deposit. Upon return of the poles, the $20 will be refunded.
If you have questions about the ordinance or its enforcement, contact Troy Swenson, Community Resource Officer, at 605.773.7412.