The Town of Rocky Mountain House is reminding property owners that they are responsible for the maintenance of trees on their property.

The Tree Bylaw (2012/04V) outlines specific guidelines for the care and maintenance of trees and shrubs growing on private property, particularly those near town boulevards, sidewalks, curbs, or lanes.

Property owners are required to properly maintain trees and shrubs that extend over sidewalks or roadways. According to the bylaw, branches extending over a sidewalk must be pruned to a height of at least 8 feet, while branches projecting over a roadway or lane must reach a minimum height of 14 feet. These height restrictions ensure the safe passage of pedestrians and vehicles, including larger trucks.

Trees must also not obstruct the line of sight near any street signs.

In addition to the height requirements, the town advises property owners to use proper pruning techniques, such as the three-step method for cutting larger branches. The first cut should be made from the underside of the branch, followed by a second cut outside of the first to remove most of the branch. The final cut should be made close to the main trunk.

(Town of Rocky Mountain House)

The Town is also alerting residents about the importance of managing tree diseases, particularly Black Knot and Dutch Elm Disease. Black Knot, an airborne fungus affecting plants in the Prunus and Rose families, is highly contagious. Early detection and proper pruning using sterile tools are key to preventing its spread. Infected wood should not be placed in green waste bins or the yard waste pile at the Eco Centre but should instead be thoroughly burned or double-bagged for disposal in black bins.

Additionally, the provincial Dutch Elm Disease (DED) pruning ban is in effect from April 1 to September 30 each year. Property owners are encouraged to prune elm trees during late fall or early spring to avoid spreading this destructive disease.

Click here for more information on proper tree care, disease prevention, or the full details of the Tree Bylaw.