When Should I Trim My Trees In Lakeway, TX?

✅ The Best Time to Trim in Lakeway (Legally + Botanically)

For most shade trees, the ideal window in Lakeway is July 1 through January 31. That’s when the city allows oak pruning and when trees are less stressed by heat, so cuts close more predictably as growth resumes into cooler months. lakeway-tx.gov

🚫 Seasonal Ban You Must Know

Lakeway prohibits routine pruning of oak trees from February 1 through June 30 due to high oak wilt risk (sap beetle activity + spore production). Emergency exceptions require approval from the City Forester. Violations can bring $500–$1,000 per day in fines. lakeway-tx.gov+2lakeway-tx.gov+2

Quick recap (Lakeway ordinance):
• No routine oak pruning: Feb 1 – Jun 30
• Permitted: Jul 1 – Jan 31 (any temperature)
• Emergency exceptions: Only with City Forester approval
• Fines for violations: $500–$1,000/day (strict enforcement) lakeway-tx.gov+1

Regardless of month, seal every oak wound immediately (within ~10 minutes) to block pathogen/insect entry. Tthis is explicitly required and reinforced by the city’s guidance. Tree Scouts always seals wounds and disinfects their equipment before they begin pruning trees. lakeway-tx.gov

🌳 Species Notes for Lakeway Yards

• Live Oaks / Red Oaks: Follow the ban strictly. Plan maintenance July–January; we like late fall–early winter for bigger structural work. Always paint cuts immediately. lakeway-tx.gov
• Other hardwoods / ornamentals: Light corrective work is fine outside the ban, but avoid heavy summer pruning during extreme heat.

☀️ When to Avoid Trimming (Even if Legal)

• Peak summer stress: Large reductions during severe heat/drought can shock trees.
• Wet periods: Heavy cuts right before long wet spells can invite decay.

🧭 HOA & Nearby Cities

If you border other jurisdictions (Bee Cave, West Lake Hills), be aware they also restrict oak pruning during late winter–early summer; details vary by city/permit rules. When in doubt, ask us to check your address and applicable ordinance. beecavetexas.gov+2eCode360+2

💪 How Tree Scouts Keeps You Compliant (and Your Trees Healthy)

Our Lakeway team:

• Schedules non-urgent oak trimming July–January to comply with the ordinance. lakeway-tx.gov
• Coordinates emergency approvals with the City Forester when safety requires action during the ban. lakeway-tx.gov
• Seals every oak cut immediately, removes debris cleanly, and provides after-care tips tailored to your site. lakeway-tx.gov

📍 More Helpful Resources

• Learn more about our Tree Trimming & Pruning Services.
• Get help from our Lakeway Tree Service team.
• Explore the full Tree Care Tips hub.

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