Report #1000 - Report: Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima)

Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) on May 29, 2012

Submitter does not have a specimen

Description of specimen

In the backyard of a neighbor -- Susan Parkman & Tiff Wood, 2755 NE 51st Avenue. The tree is in the back corner on the NE side of the yard. We offered to have it taken out and they did not take us up on. We're concerned about it spreading in our neighborhood.

Commentary

Is this something the City can take care of? I'm hoping so!!

Reporter
May 29, 2012, 8 a.m.

Hi, Peggy. I wish there were something to do with tree-of-heaven. There really isn't, though. New development has restrictions, and obstacles to removal have been removed. But there's currently no ordinance that applies. At this point, I think your only bet is persuasion. My main concern as a homeowner would be that the wood is so brittle. If it's on my property and it falls suddenly, breaking a fence (or worse), am I liable? I don't know the answer, but I wouldn't want to find out, either. Feel free to contact me directly (mitch.bixby@portlandoregon.gov) if you want to talk through it a bit.

-Mitch

Mitch Bixby
June 12, 2012, 4:55 a.m.

Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) on May 29, 2012

Description of specimen

Commentary

Location

Expert Reviewer