Back to school chores can be long to do list. Going to the store to shop for new clothes and school supplies. Enrolling kids to school and prepping them for the next grade by updating medical exams and introducing them to their teacher can take a more than a day. Along with preparing the family for going back to school, a house often must be prepped for school. Last minute cleaning, getting rid of outgrown clothes, prepping meals, and finishing lawn work are all on the to do list.

After a long summer, the trees have grown and blossomed causing problems for large vehicles to pass or sometimes causing blind spots to street signs. “Large vehicles include school buses, firetrucks, and ambulances. It is important to keep streets clean and safe for these service vehicles to pass through neighborhoods at all times,” Code Enforcement Officer James Moon explains.

Seminole City Ordinance states that it is the property owner’s responsibility to keep branches at least eleven feet above the level of streets and alleys, and eight feet above sidewalks or other places overhung by branches. If properties owners fail to comply to this ordinance, code enforcement officers may choose to cause the work to be done at the expense of the owner.

“The City does have equipment to cut branches. However, when the job is done by public works employees, property owners are not always happy with the work that happens. The way we cut the branches is not always in the tree’s or property’s best interest. We care about getting the job done, and aesthetics are secondary to finishing the job,” said Public Works Director Bryant Baker.

A property owner may choose to work on the property himself or hire a tree trimmer. The City of Seminole’s website has a list of licensed tree trimmers available. Tree trimmers must have a license with the City to legally operate within City limits.

“We love this time of year as a City. Back to school brings high school games, new college students, and fun elementary atmosphere. We want the community to thrive in all areas and that includes property maintenance. Trimming trees is a small way property owners can help our community thrive,” said City Manager Steve Saxon.