Cutting Back to Spring Forward

Trees enhance the environment around buildings, grounds, and landscaped areas, but they also introduce property damage and liability risks-especially during the transition from winter to spring. Freeze-thaw cycles, fluctuating temperatures, and lingering winter stress can weaken limbs, roots, and overall tree stability. When trees are located too close to structures, extend over roofs or parking areas, or interfere with utilities, these seasonal impacts can increase exposure.

This guidance highlights common risks associated with large trees near buildings and offers recommendations for reducing those risks through assessment, monitoring, and annual maintenance.

Risk Assessment and Responsibility 
Effective tree-related risk management begins with gathering information and completing a formal assessment. Seasonal transitions make this especially important, as winter damage often becomes visible only when thawing begins.

Weather patterns and seasonal changes significantly affect tree health and structural stability. Key considerations include:

• Rainfall and soil conditions: Melting snow and spring rain can soften soil, reducing root anchorage.
• Drought: Low moisture weakens trees and increases susceptibility to limb failure.
• Strong winds and storms: Late-winter and early-spring storms can break limbs or cause trees to contact buildings.
• Snow, ice, and freezing rain: Winter loading stresses branches; thawing may reveal cracks or weakened limbs.
• Freeze-thaw cycles: Rapid temperature swings can cause bark splitting, root movement, and hidden structural issues.

Property owners and businesses should take reasonable steps to manage risk by:

• Identifying trees that may pose hazards.
• Conducting regular inspections, especially after storms.
• Maintaining trees in a safe condition.
• Taking corrective action when issues arise.

Distance from Buildings
Trees located too close to buildings can create multiple risks, including:

• Access for intruders or wildlife.
• Leaf accumulation blocking drainage systems and slippery surfaces.
• Limb failure impacting roofs, vehicles, or pedestrian areas.
• Fire exposure between trees and structures.

Aggressive root systems or proximity to utilities may also cause foundation cracking, pavement damage, or service disruptions.

Annual Inspection and Maintenance
The winter-to-spring transition is an ideal time for inspection, as winter damage becomes visible before new growth emerges. Inspections should be documented and include:

• Tree health: Remove dead or dying limbs; watch for decay, disease, or pests.
• Height and canopy spread: Prune to prevent encroachment and reduce wind loading.
• Leaf and debris management: Clear roofs, gutters, and surrounding areas to ensure proper drainage.
• Ground conditions: Look for soil movement, root heave, or settlement affecting stability.

Professional Services and Safe Practices 
Engage licensed, insured arborists for inspection, pruning, and removal. Tree climbing and removal by untrained employees or subcontractors is not recommended due to significant safety and liability risks.

Planning and New Planting Considerations 
Before planting new trees, consider:

• Future Height and canopy spread.
• Root System behavior.
• Proximity to buildings and paved areas.
• Impacts to underground utilities.

Always call 811 before digging to locate buried utilities and prevent damage.