Lowell Council Reviews Request to Remove Leaning Tree
A city resident petitioned for the inspection of a tree on Foch Street citing potential safety hazards to his home.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in City Hall
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A Lowell resident petitioned the City Council for the removal of a leaning tree located on public property on Foch Street. The Council has referred the request to the City Manager and the Department of Public Works for further assessment.
Why it matters
The petition highlights local concerns over tree safety and property maintenance responsibilities in the city. Evaluating whether a tree is on public or private property is a necessary step before any removal or mitigation can occur.
Lowell residents seeking a tree ownership evaluation can contact the Street Department at 978-674-1807. The city is also preparing an ordinance for a new Tree Committee with proposed member terms of 1 to 3 years.
The players
Ryan Underwood
He is the Lowell resident who filed a petition regarding a leaning tree on Foch Street that he claims threatens his property.
Lowell City Council
This is the legislative body for the city of Lowell that reviews local petitions and oversees municipal ordinances.
Department of Public Works
This municipal agency is responsible for maintaining city infrastructure, including the evaluation of public property and trees.
The details
Resident Ryan Underwood filed the petition on October 14, stating that the tree leans over his house and poses a safety risk to his daughter's bedroom. The Street Department and Engineering Department will collaborate to determine ownership and potential next steps.
Timeline
October 14, 2026: The resident filed the tree petition.
September and October 2025: Project team completed public outreach for the Tree Committee.
Tuesday night, October 27, 2026: The resident addressed the City Council.
November 3, 2026: The first reading of the Tree Committee ordinance is scheduled.
Political Context
The petition follows the ongoing efforts to establish a structured Tree Committee to manage vegetation concerns across the city. Some residents may argue that individual tree removals should be expedited rather than waiting for the oversight of a new committee board.
Residents concerned about hazardous trees near their homes must file petitions with the City Clerk by the Thursday before a regular Council meeting. The city relies on the Street and Engineering Departments to clarify property boundaries before taking action.
The takeaway
Homeowners should check their property lines and contact the city early when identifying potential safety hazards on public land. The upcoming Tree Committee is expected to streamline how the city handles public requests regarding vegetation management.
What happens next
The city is scheduled to conduct a first reading of the Tree Committee ordinance during the November 3, 2026, City Council meeting.
Further reading
Find more information on local governance and city services at City Hall.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Lowell Sun.
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