ELEVATED PITS – -   let’s not forget that those timber, brick or cobblestone borders of any type limit the potential for our street tree’s success.  They keep water from entering the tree pits, they promote unwanted root growth above the water line, they are not friendly to car doors and the resulting elevation of soil around the tree trunk creates fungus-causing girdling.  Let’s all continue to maintain a zero-tolerance profile in protecting our valuable street trees and just SAY NO to elevated tree pit enclosures.

Constructing new tree pits, cutting in new sidewalk opening requires forethought and analysis.  Clearance to adjacent steps, mailboxes, traffic site lines, overhead wires are just a few considerations.  Of course, underground utilities must be diligently researched.  Gas, electric, water, sewer, storm water, public works conduit & cable all must be confirmed “During” the planning process.  A Tree Pit Request form is the first formal step.  Miss Utility, Footways Inspection Request and a City Sidewalk Impact Permit are also required.  Grouping tree pit requests can diminish the related $58 fees.  Parks and People is a good resource for assistance with the process.  Pits should be 4-foot wide by 6-foot long.  Suggested locations can be reviewed by Streets & People.  Approval by the local area Forestry Division inspector is required.  Tim Shive is our area’s supervisor who works under the City Arborist Brian Henry.  In the meantime, they are available @  410 396-6109  410 396-6109 .  Try to catch them early, between 7:30 & 8:00 am.  Pits are commonly placed directly along the curb line, furthest away from the front of the house. Using a cut saw and jackhammer,  then removing the concrete and backfill with topsoil.  Some contractors charge $175 a tree pit . If interested, make sure to get City approval first, their watchful eye can help avoid potential disaster.

Rich Polan, TheTreeGuy

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