Street Trees & Vegetation Control

Lebanon strives towards being a green city. Trees, shrubs, and other landscape plants are a big part of that. Every tree that takes root also carries with it a myriad of benefits to our health, quality of life, and well-being – locally and globally.

• Individuals, blocks, and neighborhoods can have a great impact on Lebanon's trees program by applying to have new street trees planted.
• Construction and remodeling projects generally require owners to apply to have a street tree planted after the project is completed.
• Anytime a street tree is removed, at least one new tree is required to be planted (exceptions may occur).
• Trees impact our:
  •  Air Quality
  • Urban Heat Island Effect
  • Water Quality
  • Social & Community Stewardship
  • Spirituality and Psychology
  • Economy & Energy
  • Wildlife Habitat

The Benefits of Trees

Trees are good for communities in many ways. Trees beautify neighborhoods and increase property values. During the summer, they promote energy savings through shading. During the winter, leaves and tree basins intercept wind and water run-off and limit flooding. In addition, trees reduce noise pollution, create privacy, furnish homes for birds, supply fresh air, and offset the impacts of car exhaust. Carbon sequestering in trees helps to lower the effects of global warming.

Awards and Recognition

Lebanon has been consistently recognized for its efforts at improving ecosystem values provided by our Urban Forest. To date, Urban Forestry efforts have resulted in: 

• Tree City USA designation awards each year since 2002 

Requirements of becoming a Tree City USA include:

• Appoint a tree board or city department to manage the tree care program.
• Have or pass a public tree care ordinance.
• Spend a minimum of $2 per capita on a community forestry program.
• Have an Arbor Day proclamation and hold an Arbor Day event.

Plant a Tree Today

Individual property owners can apply to plant a street tree in the City public right-of-way adjacent to their property.

1. Review the Accepted Street Tree List and pick out a tree. You can consult the City's Engineering Department regarding a proper species and location.
2. Complete the Street Tree Planting Application (also available at City Hall) and mail, drop it off, or email to engineering@ci.lebanon.or.us, to the Engineering Department, 925 Main Street, Lebanon, OR 97355.

Tree Removal 

Individual property owners can apply to remove a street tree in the City public right-of-way adjacent to their property.

1. Complete the Street Tree Removal Application (also available at City Hall) and mail, drop it off, or email to engineering@ci.lebanon.or.us, to the Engineering Department, 925 Main Street, Lebanon, OR 97355.

Tree & Vegetation Maintenance in the Right-of-Way

The City's annual tree-trimming program runs from November to March. City crews will be trimming trees, shrubs and other vegetation that encroach right-of-ways in the city.

The program provides safe and usable right-of-way for pedestrians, vehicles and maintenance equipment in streets, sidewalks, and alleys by meeting Lebanon Municipal Code 12.16.040, which requires clearances of 13 feet above streets and alleys, 14 feet above streets on truck routes, and 8 feet above sidewalks.

Properties with vegetation in the right-of-way will receive a door hanger notifying them of the need for trimming. Property owners who receive a door hanger have two options for vegetation trimming to comply with City ordinances:  call Public Works at (541) 258.4918 or email pw@ci.lebanon.or.us and let them know that either you will trim the vegetation or request that City crews trim the vegetation at no charge.

City crews will trim only what is encroaching the right-of-way. This will leave a straight cut on your vegetation and trees. If trees or shrubs require special trimming or you would like it to be trimmed evenly, it is recommended that the property owner complete the trimming.

Trimming Requirements:

Street & Sidewalk: 13 feet above road surface, 14 feet above street surface on truck routes, and 8 feet above sidewalk.

Fire Hydrants: 3 feet of clear space around them so fire fighters can find them, attach the hose, and open up the valve without delay.