Who is Responsible for Clearing Tree Damage After a Storm?

A huge storm ripped through Rochester late last night causing some pretty bad damage across the city and left thousands without power.

If you've been around town at all today you've seen all of the tree damage that occurred. If you're someone who has a tree that was damaged or completely taken out by the storm, you might be wondering who's responsible for the cleanup, you or the city?

The answer is... it depends. It depends on where the tree is located and it depends on where the debris landed.

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Who Has to Clean Up Tree Debris After a Storm in Rochester, MN?

The City of Rochester shared some guidance on when the city is responsible for tree clean up and when we're responsible for the tree clean up.

First priority for clean up will go to any trees (public or private) that are blocking the public right-of-way or travel.

After that, if the tree is a public tree (this would include the trees in the boulevard), it's the city's job to clean up the debris that is on public property. So if any part of the public tree ended up on your private property, then it's your responsibility.

If it's a tree from your private property, then it's your responsibility as well. The city may come around to clear any damage blocking the sidewalk or street, but getting the debris removed is still on you.

Also, if there's debris from a public tree that ended up on your private property, it's your responsibility, too.

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Where Can You Take Tree Debris in Rochester, MN

If you have tree debris, you're not allowed to burn it or dispose of it yourself. The city writes that you should contact licensed tree care company. The companies the city knows have the proper liability insurance in place are:

• Hathaway Tree Service (2555 50 Ave NW) 507-282-4777 (Commercial or residential)
• JW Stump Dump (3535 Simpson Road SE) 507-282-4777 (Commercial or residential)
• ProCut Firewood (2660 Broadway Ave N) 507-280-7780 (Commercial or residential - accepting wood 5" or larger, no brush)

Each will charge a fee, even if you're dropping off debris yourself.

How to Report Tree Damage to the City of Rochester, MN

If you have tree damage that the city needs to take care of, the city says these are the steps you should take:

• Visit the City’s Storm Damage Dashboard webpage for additional information and guidance.
• Call 311 (507-328-2311) with questions or to report storm-related concerns.