A stump between the sidewalk and the street

If the stump sits in the strip between your sidewalk and the curb, the first question is whose it is. The City of St. Charles publishes two relevant facts, quoted below, and leaves one question open: whether stump work is part of the city program.

Updated October 25, 2026

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What the city says

• Owner responsibility. "Property owners are responsible for the maintenance of trees on their property, including those commonly referred to as street trees." (City FAQ)
• 50/50 program. The city pays 50 percent of trimming or removing dangerous, dead or damaged trees in city right-of-way, and the owner pays the rest. Work is first-come, first-served and the city's total share cannot exceed the budgeted amount. Applications go through the city's self-service portal. (Residential Programs)

What we could not confirm

• Whether a private pro may grind a stump in the right-of-way without a city permit. The city's Permits page lists only engineering permits and does not mention trees.
• Whether the 50/50 program includes the stump.

City Hall's main number is 636-949-3200. Ask before work starts.

Practical steps

1. Find out which side of the property line the stump is on (your plat or survey).
2. If it is in the right-of-way, call the city before you hire anyone.
3. Call 811 either way; see our 811 page.
4. Mention the location in your quote request so the pro can plan.

Common questions

Who maintains the tree in the strip by the street?

The City of St. Charles FAQ says property owners are responsible for maintaining trees on their property, including those commonly called street trees.

Does the city pay for removing a tree in the right-of-way?

For trees in the right-of-way that are dangerous, dead or damaged, the city's 50/50 program pays half of trimming or removal, and the landowner pays the other half. The Director of Public Works or a designee decides whether the tree qualifies, and the city's total share is limited by its budget.

Does the 50/50 program cover stump grinding?

The program page talks about trimming or removing trees. It does not say whether the stump is included. Ask Public Works before you assume either way.

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