Regulated Trees

Regulated Street Tree(s) are defined as any tree(s) in the Borough which is (are) located within the public right-of-way.  To find a tree or tag number use our Urban Forest interactive map that contains all Borough Regulated Trees. Regulated street trees are the property of the Borough of Phoenixville; vandalism, unauthorized removal, or pruning may result in legal action, fines, and replacement costs.

Trimming & Removal Information

At this time the Borough is undertaking a comprehensive tree inventory performed by Brandywine Urban Forest Consulting requires tagging of each tree within the right-of-way and in Borough parks. The tree tagging methods used are pursuant to the International Society of Arboriculture Best Management Practices and allow for tree growth. Tree tags enable residents, Borough staff, and tree managers to quickly identify individual trees without confusion. The resulting tree database will be used to maintain and improve the benefits provided by the Borough’s regulated trees.

While this process is underway, the Borough only accepts requests for tree trimming or removal of regulated trees that are dead, dying, or hazardous. However, property owners may choose the option of paying for tree service provided that the Tree Advisory Commission (TAC) inspects such trees and makes recommendations relative to trimming or removal plans. 

Borough Regulated Tree Application (PDF).

The Tree Advisory Commission is charged with reviewing procedures and policies pertaining to the maintenance and removal of regulated Borough street trees. All applications must include a descriptive plan for trimming or removal of trees. In the case of tree removal, the applicant must agree to replace the tree and be responsible for the successful establishment of the replanted tree. Additionally, wood removed from tree services must be disposed at the Borough’s compost site.

Choosing an Arborist

All work must be performed under the direction of an insured, International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist in accordance with American National Standards Institute (ANSI) A300 standards for arboriculture.

Current Guidelines

It is the policy of the Borough of Phoenixville not to remove healthy or restorable Borough regulated street trees.

Maintenance and repair of sidewalks are the responsibility of the abutting property owner. In replacing/repairing sidewalks adjacent to Borough regulated street trees, do not cut or remove tree roots. Provide root room with a cutout or route the walkway around or further from the tree. Take care not to damage or injure the regulated tree during construction work.