‘Keep Boundary Trees Trimmed’ Order

from Kapiti Coast District Council

The KCDC says  residents with boundaries alongside footpaths  are responsible for ensuring their plants don’t cause any obstructions.

It says the recent burst of growth from trees, shrubs and hedges has reinforced the need for home owners to act.

“Low hanging branches, and tree limbs sticking out into the footpath, can be a real problem for disabled people, especially the sight impaired and those with mobility scooters, who either run into them because they can’t see them or can’t easily go around them,” says KCDC Open Space  Manager Lex Bartlett.

“We act on complaints or when we see there is an issue and we serve notice on residents that they must trim the growth back,” he says.

“If action isn’t taken within a certain span of time, then we cut it back ourselves and send the resident the bill.

“We recognise it’s not always easy for some people to manage trimming.  If they physically can’t do it, then Council can arrange to have it done for them,” says Mr Bartlett.

“Mind you, if we have to cut because residents have not complied with a notice — or have asked us to do the cutting — then we will do a professional job but we may not be as generous at shaping it as a home owner or an arborist might.

“Where the problem tree or shrub is on Council land, we would appreciate receiving a call so we can take care of any problem trees and shrubs we have too.”

Mr Bartlett says “It’s an issue where residents and the Council have a joint responsibility to ensure trees and shrubs don’t obstruct footpaths and roadways.

“And it works best when we work together on the problem.”

“Just have consideration for others and keep an eye on your trees and shrubs to make sure they don’t obstruct footpaths or roads,” Mr Bartlett says.

Residents receiving a notice to trim overhanging trees or shrubs should comply within the notice period.

If they are unable to for any reason, contact the Council Call Centre as soon as possible (0800 486 486).