According to Section 13.28.190 of the San Jose Municipal Code, the city expects you to care for your tree in the same way that your parents expected you to care for your pets, water them, feed them and clean up after them (walks are optional). It’s a big responsibility. There’s only one downside…

2) You are held accountable for any mischief your tree causes

But how could a tree get into trouble? They don’t bite and can’t walk! What’s the deal? Guys, I hate to break it to you, but your tree can get up to plenty of trouble where you can’t see. The roots can grow outward and disrupt buried utilities, roads and sidewalks. Branches can interfere with power lines or grow in ways that impede traffic and visibility. Trees with structural problems or dead branches may even pose a safety hazard.