If the repair is yours to pay
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Default rule and exceptions
Owner maintains trees on their property AND the adjacent right-of-way planting strip (Title 11).
| Party | What they are responsible for |
|---|---|
| Property owner | Adjacent property owner responsible for street-tree maintenance in the right-of-way (City Code Title 11 §11.60); city-funded Street Tree Care program supplements but does not replace the duty. |
| City / public agency | City runs a funded Street Tree Care program (inspection/pruning/removal/replanting). |
| Exceptions | None on record |
What the source says
Last verified against the primary source on Aug 19, 2026.
It is the duty of every owner of property to maintain trees located on the property or on the adjacent street planting area in accordance with this Section. Further, the owner must be responsible for all costs associated with such maintenance, removal and any tree replacement, if required.
Property owners are still responsible for maintaining trees located on their property and on the adjacent street planting area (the right-of-way)
City rules rest on state law. Read Oregon's sidewalk statute, quoted verbatim, or see all 50 states in one table.
Common questions
Who pays for tree roots in Portland, OR?
The property owner. Adjacent property owner responsible for street-tree maintenance in the right-of-way (City Code Title 11 §11.60); city-funded Street Tree Care program supplements but does not replace the duty.
What does the city cover in Portland, OR?
City runs a funded Street Tree Care program (inspection/pruning/removal/replanting).
What is this based on for Portland, OR?
This verdict is sourced to 11.60.060 Tree Maintenance Specifications and Responsibilities. and 2 sources in total, each independently re-checked before publication.
Sources
- 11.60.060 Tree Maintenance Specifications and Responsibilities.ordinance · verified-primary · accessed 2026-09-27
- Street Tree Care - Frequently Asked Questions.official-guide · verified-primary · accessed 2026-09-27
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