How can I get a damaged tree removed in Richmond?

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Central Virginia has seen quite a lot of severe weather in the past weeks, with storms and floods causing widespread issues. If you're a Richmonder who has concerns about a damaged tree, what can you do to get it removed?

In one of her office's newsletters issued Friday, July 11, city councilwoman Kenya Gibson spoke on the impact these storms have had -- and could continue to have -- on Richmond's tree canopy.

"The storms and tree damage we’ve had this summer have been scary," Gibson wrote. "The combination of rain and wind have brought down large branches and trees down throughout the [third] district, including two massive city-owned trees that fell and hit homes in Rosedale."

Gibson said that she feels Richmond is lucky to have the tree canopy it does.

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"I also know we need assurance that the city is addressing trees that could be at risk in high winds," she continued.

To that effect, Gibson said she reached out to the city's Department of Public Works (DPW) for information on damaged tree removal and she shared a presentation the DPW provided in May.

Per that presentation, the DPW will have its own crews or an external contractor remove a tree if it meets any of the following criteria:

• The tree in question is dead.
• It is either dying or diseased "to the point that the overall health and safety of the tree has been compromised."
• It has a structural defect or defects that "compromise its integrity and pose a public safety concern."

"Public safety is our number one priority and work is scheduled based on assessed risk and available resources," the city said in May.

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If you are concerned about a tree in your area, you can submit a report through RVA 311.

Gibson also encouraged residents in the third district to email her office if they "have not seen the outcome [they] hoped" regarding their request or if they have any feedback.