City of Rochester Shares Storm Tree Response Guidance for Homeowners

As severe weather season begins, the City of Rochester is providing guidance to help residents understand how tree-related storm damage is addressed and what steps to take if their property is impacted. The City has updated its guidance to provide additional clarity on how tree-related storm damage is handled and the roles of City crews and property owners. 

Under Minnesota law, private property owners are responsible for managing trees on their property and ensuring that vegetation does not obstruct public roads or sidewalks. The City is responsible for maintaining safe and clear public rights-of-way. 

When the City Responds 

City crews respond to tree-related issues that impact public safety and access, including: 

• Public trees blocking a street  

• Public trees blocking a sidewalk or trail (non-emergency situations are addressed during regular work hours)  

• Tree limbs or parts contacting power lines (Rochester Public Utilities leads response)  

• Public trees in parks blocking emergency access or reserved spaces  

• Private trees that have fallen into the public right-of-way and are obstructing travel  

In these situations, City crews will work to restore safe access, including clearing roadways and moving debris as needed. If debris originates from a private tree, it may be moved aside, but the property owner is responsible for final removal and cleanup. 

When the Homeowner is Responsible 

Property owners are responsible for: 

• All tree debris on private property, whether from a public or private tree  

• Private tree debris that does not block streets, sidewalks, or other public infrastructure  

• Removal and disposal of private property tree debris remaining after City crews have cleared a roadway  

The City does not collect or haul debris from private property. 

What to Do Next 

If your property is impacted by tree-related storm damage: 

1. Contact your insurance company  

1. Hire a licensed tree care professional  

1. Visit the City’s Storm Damage Dashboard webpage for additional guidance  

1. Call 311 with questions  

If the damage involves a public tree, residents should call 507-328-2515 to complete an accident or incident report.