City of Ann Arbor - File #: 26-1075

• File #: 26-1075
• Version: 1
• Name: 7/6/26 Oak Wilt Prevention Ordinance
• Type: Ordinance
• Status: First Reading
• File created: 7/6/2026
• In control: City Council
• On agenda: 7/6/2026
• Title: An Ordinance to Amend Chapter 40 (Trees and Other Vegetation) of Title III (Parks and Public Grounds) of the Ann Arbor City Code
• Sponsors: Chris Watson

Title

An Ordinance to Amend Chapter 40 (Trees and Other Vegetation) of Title III (Parks and Public Grounds) of the Ann Arbor City Code

Memorandum

The proposed ordinance will prevent the occurrence and spread of Oak Wilt disease by prohibiting pruning and trimming oak trees, whether on private or public land, between March 1^st and December 1^st.  The ordinance mandates the prompt treatment, via a pruning sealant or latex paint, of any wounds to oak trees caused by pruning, trimming, accident, or construction.  It also requires prompt chipping of oak trees and branches, and sealing, grinding, or removing oak tree stumps.

Staff

Prepared and Reviewed by: John W. Reiser, Senior Assistant City Attorney

Reviewed by: Paul Matthews, Public Works Manager

Reviewed by: Andre Anderson, Police Chief

Reviewed by: Nicholas Jacobs, Urban and Community Forester

Body

(See Attached Ordinance)

Sponsored by: Councilmember Christopher Watson