Driveway Near Western Red Cedar: Root Protection

A stand of large western red cedars (initially thought 8–12 ft diameter, corrected to 8–12 inches) faced a new driveway 3 feet from trunks. Owner asked if this would damage roots and how to keep trees healthy.

The expert said digging >12 inches deep that close would damage roots (general rule: don't damage >25% of roots). If driveway can be built with only 3–4 inches of excavation, roots should be fine. Cedar roots don't heave pavement. After construction, fertilize with 10-10-10 at 1 lb per inch trunk diameter to stimulate root regrowth.

Construction Guidelines

• Max excavation depth: 3–4 inches near trunks.
• Root loss limit: 25%.
• Post-construction fertilizing helps recovery.
• Cedar roots don't lift pavement.