Can I cut my neighbor’s tree?

Only the part that hangs over your property

Tree roots are blocking up my sewer, will the city remove these roots?

No, you must call a root removal company.

Does the city provide free wood chips to residents?

Yes, upon request. Call 216. 664.3104 for up to 6 yards of wood chips. They will be delivered free of charge to any City of Cleveland resident in 5 to 7 business days. The City does not store wood chips for pick up.

Is the city responsible for the tree in my back yard?

No, the city is responsible only for trees on tree lawns. You must call a private contractor for other trees in your yard.

What does the City consider emergency tree service?

Limbs that pose a safety hazard, hang into right-of-ways or cover stop signs, and downed trees and limbs.

I heard that vacant land was available in Cleveland for as little as $1.00. Where can I find out more about this?

Call 216.664.2869 for the Division of Real Estate. See the list of available properties here.

Can I check my property tax payment online?

See the Cuyahoga County Auditor's website.

Where can I find information on Real Estate tax?

See the Cuyahoga County Treasurer's Office.

Where can I find online information on property ownership and deed transfers?

The Cuyahoga County Recorder’s Office.

Where can I find information on foreclosed properties?

See the Cuyahoga County Sheriff's Office.

Where can I find information on real estate tax abatement?

Call the City's Department of Community Development, Director's Office at 216-664-4000; Fax 216-664-4006 or see the online information about tax abatement.

How can I apply for tax exemptions on residential real property?

For city ordinance and property eligibility information, click here.

Who can I call about a vacant property that has not been maintained?

Parks & Properties at 216.420.8300

How can I tell if a tree is owned by the city?

City-owned trees can be found on City property, tree lawns or Right of Ways.

Who is responsible for grass cutting on vacant lots?

The city has landbank properties which the Division of Park Maintenance is responsible for maintaining. Many vacant lots are privately owned, and property owners should maintain them. If grass on a lot is over 8” the City will cut it and bill the owner. -more.

Tree roots from the tree on my tree lawn are raising my sidewalk. Will the city remove the roots?

Yes, the city will grind out the roots. The homeowner is responsible for lifting the sidewalk. For further information on tree root removal, see Urban Forestry or call 216.664.3104.

There is a tree on my tree lawn that needs trimming. Does the City take care of that?

Yes, do either of the following:

• call the Division of Urban Forestry at 216.664.3235 and a City employee will come out and inspect the tree. If the tree requires trimming, it will be placed on a list for service.
• Email the Department of Parks, Recreation & Properties here.
• If you would like to trim it yourself, call Urban Forestry at the above number to request a permit

Why did I receive a bill for grass cutting on my vacant lot?

The City maintains vacant lots and the exterior of vacant structures in order to prevent them from becoming public nuisances. You can be billed for maintenance services of vacant property. Call 216.420.8300 for further information.

I received a bill for grass cutting for my vacant lot. How do I protest this?

• A written protest must be filed within ten days after receiving the bill
• The Division of Park Maintenance and Properties investigates the protest, and mails a response on whether the protest was granted or denied. If denied the property owner can appeal.
• If the appeal is denied and the bill is not paid, the Division of Licenses and Assessments certifies the bill to the County Auditor to be placed on the owner’s tax bill.

How do I get a City-owned tree removed?

Property owners concerned about a city-owned tree that may be dead, diseased or hazardous may contact the office of Urban Forestry at 216.664.3235 between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm to request a free inspection.