The NYC Parks Department pursues property owners for alleged damage to street trees, and its demands are not small: a single tree can be valued in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, and claims arrive as formal demands that escalate toward collection. Goldschein Law Practice defends owners against Parks tree claims - and has taken the City to court over them and won.
How Parks Builds a Claim
Parks values a tree by its size, species, and condition, and attributes damage to nearby construction or work on the adjoining property. The demand letter that results is the City's position - built on the City's own assessment. That assessment, its valuation, and its attribution of causation can all be examined.
Challenging a Parks Claim
The practice reviews the claim and its basis, responds to the demand, and contests or negotiates it toward resolution. Where the City will not move, the practice has taken Parks to Supreme Court in Article 78 proceedings.
Documented Results Against NYC Parks
- Parks demanded $316,800 for alleged damage to one 33-inch silver linden. After an Article 78 challenge, the City withdrew the entire demand. A second $316,800 demand arising from the same matter was resolved for $125,000 - $508,600 saved (Index No. 161260/2024).
- Parks sought $490,000 in restitution for eight trees. The practice's challenge produced a so-ordered settlement of $200,000, payable over more than two years - $290,000 saved (Index No. 85033/2024).
Read the full case summaries on the Results page
NYC Parks Tree Claim FAQ
Why is NYC Parks demanding money from me?
The NYC Parks Department asserts claims against property owners for alleged damage to street trees - often connected to nearby construction. Valuations for a single mature tree can reach into the hundreds of thousands of dollars.
How does Parks calculate the value of a tree?
Parks values trees based on factors such as size, species, and condition. The valuation is the City's opening position, not a final judgment - it can be examined and contested.
Can a Parks tree claim be fought?
Yes. The practice reviews the basis of the claim and the valuation, responds to the demand, and negotiates or litigates toward resolution. In one matter, a $316,800 demand was withdrawn entirely after the practice challenged it in Supreme Court.
What happens if I ignore a Parks demand?
Demands can escalate to collection referrals and further enforcement. Addressing the claim early keeps more options open.
Resources: NYC Parks