In San Francisco, in most cases, the property owner is responsible, by law, for the care of the adjoining street tree and for keeping the surrounding sidewalk in good condition. The sidewalk and tree are not considered part of the owner’s property. This area is considered the public right of way and the Department of Public Works regulates its use and condition.

For some blocks in San Francisco, the Department of Public Works maintains the tree and sidewalk. To see if your block is one of them, visit this link: http://www.sfgov.org/site/sfdpw_index.asp?id=33189

Friends of the Urban Forest is a nonprofit, supported through donations and volunteer labor, that helps citizens understand their responsibilities and can give information and referrals related to tree and sidewalk issues.

The links to the left address tree care and sidewalk issues. For further information, call 561-6890, extension 102 for the Tree Care Coordinator.

FUF Early Tree Care Services:

Friends of the Urban Forest believes in helping you help each tree become established. Early tree care is an important part of this. We visit each tree planted through our program at least 3 times in the first 3 years. You can contract us for additional visits at anytime up to the 5 year anniversary of planting. After 5 years, we continue to be a source of advice and referral for you.