Street Tree Pit Guards

This pit guard exemplifies many of the benefits of good tree pit guard and is a good model of a simple, attractive and effective pit guard. The low iron fence prevents pedestrians from entering the pit and compacting soil, discourages dogs from depositing waste in the pit and protects the tree from cars. The Belgian Block lip which is mortared in place prevents salt and chemicals from washing into the pit. TNY Rating: A

This is another simple pit guard, similar to the one above. The lip is made of continuous stone instead of Belgian Block, but both styles help prevent salt and chemicals from washing into the pit. The fence consists of a series of iron wickets, which are absent on the street side to allow space for car doors to open. Because the fence is lower and open on one side, signs have been installed to further discourage dog owners from allowing dogs into the pit. TNY Rating: A

This guard consists only of an iron fence, the stone lip has been omitted. This guard remains effective especially where the risk of contamination by salt and chemicals low. The fence protects against foot traffic, dogs and cars, but does not restrict the growth of the tree TNY Rating: A-

This pit guard consists of sidewalk level grating and a high iron fence circling the tree. Normally, grating and high fences are not appropriate pit guards because they can restrict the width of growing trees and do not offer protection against dog urination or salt and chemical poisoning. However, in locations where physical tree abuse is extreme and the sidewalks are very narrow, such guards may be necessary to protect the tree. The wide opening of the grating and large diameter of the fence make this guard preferable to its narrow counterparts. TNY Rating: B+

This is an untended pit without a guard. This picture shows the compacted soil of an untended, unguarded pit. A second tree has taken root alongside the mature tree. One tree will eventually stifle the other. The trees are unlikely to get enough water if the soil is not tilled and the area protected. Dogs are more likely to urinate in an unfenced pit exposing the trees to toxins. People are more likely to litter and walk their dogs in this pit because it appears as though the tree is not watched after. TNY Rating: F

This pit guard is harmful to the tree. This guard was installed in an attempt to protect a tree and create a planting area. Unfortunately, this style of pit guard will more than likely kill the tree. The elevated level of soil inside the solid brick wall is above the tree's root system and will rot the bark of the tree creating an entry point for disease. The elevated soil also prevents water from penetrating to the root system. When building a tree pit guard do not elevate the level of the soil above the sidewalk level. Use bricks to create a ground level lip instead of a deep well. TNY Rating: F

This simple homemade wooden pit guard looks attractive with its colorful plantings.

However, the soil level has been raised above the ground level. The weight of the additional soil will compact the soil around the tree roots, preventing the tree from absorbing water properly. The bark of the tree will most likely rot when covered in soil allowing an entry point for disease. A small picket fence is a better low-cost option because the space between pickets does not allow the soil level to be raised. TNY Rating: F

This unprotected tree pit is used to store garbage while it awaits pickup. Physical damage to the tree trunk may occur if the garbage is thrown carelessly against the tree. Garbage may also contain any number of harmful products which seep into the soil as the garbage awaits pickup. Garbage will also restrict the flow of air and water to the tree's root system. Placing garbage against the tree gives a visual indicator to passersby that the tree is not important. The garbage pile will encourage additional littering and pet defecation. Garbage should be kept in containers that prevent leakage. A pit guard would make piling garbage in the pit much more difficult and less desirable. TNY Rating: F

Don't forget that plantings in your tree pit can be attractive and very beneficial to the tree. To learn more about tree pit gardening click here.

Installing Your Tree Pit Guard:
You do not need a permit to install a tree pit guard. You may not damage or remove the sidewalk when installing your guard. Your guard should also be removable to allow access to the tree and sidewalk.