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Council approves ordinance to require property owners trim shrubs and tree limbs over sidewalks; enforcement route clarified
Summary
After a public hearing with mixed comments, the Smithfield Town Council approved an amendment to the town code requiring property owners to remove vegetation encroaching on sidewalks; the ordinance provides municipal enforcement authority and municipal crews will respond to reported hazards.
The Smithfield Town Council approved an amendment April 15 to town ordinances requiring property owners to trim shrubs and tree limbs that encroach on sidewalks or create a safety hazard.
The measure, introduced after a fatal sidewalk collision earlier in the year, drew public comment from homeowners who supported clearer rules for overhanging vegetation and others who warned about costs and the town’s capacity to enforce the rule. “I think this is a good idea,” said a resident who described sidewalks with low-hanging limbs that force walkers into the road. Another resident asked how high limbs must be trimmed; council and staff said the standard is “safe passage” for pedestrians and bicycles.
Town staff described existing processes: Public Works and the town tree warden already inspect hazardous trees; the proposed ordinance adds clear private-property responsibility and gives the town municipal-court enforcement authority if owners fail to comply after notice. The town will attempt to contact property owners and allow them to correct violations; municipal court provides a backstop and the ability to lien a property if owners refuse to take action.
Council members emphasized communication before enforcement. Some asked that residents report obstructions through the town’s ClickFix system so Public Works can prioritize hazards. The council also discussed using town crews to remedy immediate safety risks when property owners cannot or will not comply.
After closing the public hearing, the council voted by voice to adopt the amendment; the transcript records a motion, a second, and unanimous voice approval. Council members directed staff to implement an outreach process and to rely on ClickFix reporting to triage issues.
The ordinance gives the town authority to seek compliance through municipal court when voluntary corrections fail; penalties and the municipal process were discussed as enforcement options but the council emphasized that the primary goal is hazard removal and public safety rather than revenue.
