In the aftermath of intense weekend storms, Baltimore City crews on Monday were still clearing out more than 150 trees that fell on roadways.
Utility crews were also responding to power outages, many of which were caused by downed trees and branches. As of 3:20 p.m., more than 4,800 customers were still affected, according to Baltimore Gas and Electric Company.
Here’s what you need to do if you encounter a fallen tree on or near your property.
If the tree falls on your yard ...
Under state law, it is a homeowner’s responsibility to clean up and remove a fallen tree if it was in their yard. Generally, cities and counties do not help residents remove trees and branches from private property. Homeowners should call their insurance company.
If a tree has fallen on public property — like a road — residents should call 311, according to the city’s recreation and parks’ forestry division.
Most city waste crews will accept yard waste on trash collection day if branches are smaller than 4 inches in diameter or shorter than 3 feet. Residents should put yard waste in clear or labeled bags or in paper bags, or bundle it. Keep in mind that some jurisdictions limit collections to five bags.
BGE recommends checking with the Tree Care Industry Association to find a local tree service company if needed.
If it’s near utility wires ...
Utility companies, such as BGE and Comcast, are responsible for removing trees or branches from wires and equipment to restore service. But customers should dispose of branches and other debris that originate on their property, according to BGE policy.
When a tree falls onto wires or other utility equipment, BGE crews first assess if the vegetation debris can be safely removed. If it’s not safe, the tree crew will be dispatched and an operator will ground the electric equipment. Once the tree crew has finished removing the debris, they go on to their next assignment.
If it’s on public property ...
City residents should call 311 to report trees that have fallen in parks, on sidewalks, roads, or across medians.
Baltimore County residents should report dangerous or fallen trees through the BaltCoGo app.
Anne Arundel County residents should report trees blocking county-maintained roads to the “appropriate road maintenance district.” If it’s an after-hours emergency — between 3 p.m. and 6:30 a.m. — residents should call 410-222-8400.
