Case Background

On June 14, 2021, a large dead tree collapsed onto a residential property at 60 Edgehill Way in San Francisco, California. The property was owned by Florence Alberta and insured under a homeowner’s policy issued by State Farm General Insurance Company. Adjacent to the property stood a public trail and park entrance, marked by a sign reading “San Francisco Recreation & Parks Welcomes You.” The tree, which stood next to this sign, had visibly decayed before the incident.

Cause

Starting in late 2019, Ms. Alberta’s family and concerned neighbors repeatedly alerted the City and County of San Francisco about the tree’s dangerous condition. Despite multiple warnings, the City failed to act. It initially disclaimed ownership of the tree, even though its signage stood next to it. On November 20, 2020, the City issued a Notice to Abate the dangerous tree. However, no immediate action followed. On May 3, 2021, the City Attorney’s Office sent a letter to the alleged property owners, threatening to remove the tree and pursue costs. Despite this notice,