Tree Risk Assessment in Pittsburgh, PA

No one may remove or cut down a tree in a public street or other public place without a permit from the Department of Public Works. To use a private contractor on a city tree, call the Forestry Division first; if approved, apply for a tree work permit and pay the fee. All work must be supervised by an ISA Certified Arborist.

Norway and red maple: very common street and yard trees Tree-of-heaven: invasive on hillsides and vacant lots; lanternfly host Black locust: fast-growing volunteer on steep ground

Street and park tree work is requested through 311; private work requires a permit and arborist supervision.

Limited access means more climbing, rigging and crane work, and wood often has to be carried out by hand.

Heavy rain can destabilize slopes; removing trees and stumps changes how they drain and hold.

Houses on steep streets with stairs instead of driveways, retaining walls, and backyards that drop away sharply. Expect sectional removal, rope lowering and hand carrying, or a crane from the street.