Berlin Urges Property Owners to Prune Trees for Winter Safety
Berlin's road authority has issued guidelines for property owners to maintain safe and clear public spaces. The city encourages regular pruning by realtors to prevent accidents and ensure visibility for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.
Property owners in Berlin are responsible for pruning hedges, shrubs, trees, and other growth on their properties. This should be done from October to the end of February to ensure safety and visibility during the darker months. The light space profile over pedestrian and cycle paths should be kept at 2.5 meters, and over roads at 4.5 meters.
The city also requires owners to keep sight triangles at junctions and crossings clear. Overhanging branches, too wide or too high hedges can obstruct traffic flow, endanger pedestrians and cyclists, or restrict visibility of traffic signs and junctions. Dead wood should be removed, and sick or dead trees should be checked, secured, or removed if necessary. If growth extends beyond the property boundary into public traffic areas, it is considered an unauthorized special use and is illegal.
Berlin's road authority can arrange for pruning in case of acute danger, with costs billed to the respective property owners. However, regular and timely pruning by property owners is crucial to prevent accidents and liability issues. Keeping public spaces clear and safe is a shared responsibility between the city and its residents.
