Common Questions About Emerald Ash Borer Treatment and Removal

Common Questions

What is a "street tree"? 

Trees growing on the public right of way along city streets are typically referred to as "street trees". Examples include trees located between the curb and sidewalk;trees within sidewalk cutouts;and trees located within approximately ten feet of the curb if no sidewalk exists (this varies depending on location). The Forestry Division plants, removes, and maintains street trees according to Ordinance 68607. Trees not on public rights of way are privately owned trees and the responsibility of the landowner

How do I find out if the ash street tree in front of my home will be removed or treated?

View the interactive map of ash street tree locations and zoom or navigate to your location. Generally, all ash trees that are 13 inches in diameter (measured 4.5 feet above ground) and in good or excellent condition are considered candidates for treatment. Most of the remaining ash street trees will be removed over the next five years. Forestry Division will begin treating the better quality ash trees in May and then marking trees that are planned for removal beginning in July. Untreated ash street trees will be removed over the next five years, beginning with areas near the initial discovery near Penrose Park and Calvary Cemetery.

City-owned ash street tree next in front of my property is not selected as a candidate for treatment? Can I treat the tree? Is a permit required?

While only a portion of our publicly owned street trees will be good candidates for treatment, there is an option for property owners that wish to pay the cost to have ash street trees adjacent to their property treated. An on-line "Ash Permit" is available at no charge. The application provides details. Once the application is made, a certified arborist will inspect the tree to make sure it is not too infested, or weakened, to allow injection. If so, the application will be denied and the tree scheduled for removal.If the tree is not at risk or in fair condition, the permit application will be accepted and the permit issued to the homeowner and the arborist contractor that will do the injection. Permits will only be issued for trees that will be treated by an ISA Certified Arborist contractor that uses acceptable methods and is currently licensed to do business in the City of St. Louis. The time to process an application will be less than one week. Once accepted the permit can be emailed to the homeowner.

What about ash trees on private property? At my home or business?

In addition to ash trees on public lands, there are many ash trees located on private property. Treatment options for privately owned trees are different than public trees since every property owner has different goals and desires. For information about dealing with EAB on private property, read the Emerald Ash Borer Management Guide for Homeowners published by the Missouri Department of Conservation.No permit will be required for removing or treating ash trees on private property.However, if privately owned ash trees die or become hazardous, they are subject to a nuisance violation per Ordinance 68607 and will be sent a notice to remove the tree.

How do I know if I have an ash tree?

Review the information document on the Emerald Ash Borer website to assist with identifying green ash and white ash.

Where can I see a copy of the City of St. Louis Forestry Division Emerald Ash Borer Strategy?

Read the Emerald Ash Borer Strategy for St. Louis document.