Scope of Brush Control Within the Right-of-Way

Several IRVM plans state that all woody vegetation in the right-of-way is subject to removal unless otherwise directed by the engineer. Some counties list exceptions to woody vegetation removal. For example, Linn County’s IRVM plan includes a provision that some brush and trees may remain undisturbed in the right-of-way under the following conditions:

• The vegetation’s proximity to existing private fences or other structures prevents removal without causing damage to private property.
• The vegetation is located on or behind non-traversable back slopes and banks.
• The vegetation is located a safe distance away from the guardrail.
• The vegetation is located more than 30 feet away from the road.

Within the right-of-way, the priorities for brush removal can vary. For example, some counties prioritize controlling brush near the edge of the road, down the foreslope, and in the ditch bottom. Brush in these areas where errant vehicles are most likely to enter the roadside poses the greatest safety risk.

Other counties prioritize brush removal depending on the type of road. For example, near hard-surface roads with high traffic volumes, the county removes brush from the edge of the road to the ditch bottom. Near Level B roads (those that receive minimal maintenance) and dirt roads, which have low traffic volumes, the county does not prioritize brush cutting or mowing unless the trees and limbs contact vehicles on the road.