Yankton Tree Protection and Right-of-Way Code

Yankton’s Code of Ordinances § 24-39 states that the city will be responsible for all tree care aspects of park trees and will accomplish insect and disease control for street trees when determined by the city that a pest is a serious threat to other trees and for which there is an adequate control measure. For any trees or shrubs now situated on or hereafter planted in the public right-of-way, it shall be the duty of the abutting property owner to maintain trees in a safe and healthy condition and in every way in compliance with the provisions of this article. Further, it shall be the duty of each property owner to maintain all trees on his property in a healthy and safe condition. If the property owner fails to so maintain the trees, the city, after thirty (30) days’ written notice to maintain the tree, or trees, may perform the required maintenance or removal and charge the costs of the same to the property owner for collection in the same manner as other special assessments.