When the weather gets rough, and storm damage occurs, City staff stand ready to provide emergency response services and advice for dealing with storm-damaged trees. Safety is the highest priority when assessing storm-damaged trees. If trees become damaged, please:
- Do not approach damaged trees. Large trees or branches under tension or hanging are extremely dangerous.
- Stay clear of downed powerlines and call 9-1-1.
- Identify the tree's location, and use the information below to determine how to respond.
Evaluating How to Respond to Damaged Trees - Is the tree...
Blocking or Obstructing the Street?
If yes, contact the City for removal - for emergencies, call 9-1-1. For non-emergency, contact our Central Maintenance Facility at (651) 675-5300 or email
In the Right-of-Way?
If yes, contact the City for removal - for emergencies, call 9-1-1. For non-emergency, contact our Central Maintenance Facility at (651) 675-5300 or email
What is the City Right-of-Way?
(Illustration coming soon)
On Private Property?
If you have a downed tree on your private property, consult a Licensed Tree Contractor to perform hazard branch or whole tree removal. Debris disposal from trees on private property is the responsibility of the homeowner. Contact your insurance provider for property damage.
Debris Disposal
Unless specifically declared, the City will not dispose of storm damage debris (brush, branches, logs) from private property. Disposal options for residents include:
- Curbside yard waste collection through your current refuse collection service. Please contact your current refuse service provider for details or information regarding scheduling a one-time yard waste pick-up.
- Drop-off at a residential yard waste collection site. Click here for a current list of local residential yard waste collection sites.
Other Resident Resources
- Evaluating Damaged Trees on your Property: Can my tree be saved? - The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
- After the storm: Tree First Aid After a Storm - The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
- See the following short video from the Illinois DNR about steps you can take before storms arrive Are Your Trees Storm Ready?