What if the problem is street tree roots uplifting the sidewalk?
Situations in which the roots of a street tree (a tree planted by the City in the planter strip) are the cause of the damage to the sidewalk require special care. First, call the City’s Urban Forester at (510) 559-4275. The Urban Forester will arrange for an inspection of the sidewalk. The Arborist will devise a way to trim the roots of the tree without seriously damaging it, and allow for construction of the new sidewalk. Next, select a licensed Contractor, who takes out a (no-fee) Encroachment Permit to carry out the work. If funds are available, residential property owners may be eligible for partial reimbursement. Please contact the City’s Transportation Planner at (510) 528-5759 to check on City funding availability and documentation requirements for partial reimbursement.
