On a previous property I had a similar issue. I approached the city council and they requested a written request for removal. Removal was granted with the conditions that I use a City approved tree service and pay for removal and pay for the purchase and installation of two 15 gal. trees at a city park of the cities choice.
In the written request I explained that the location prevented access to my property, was lifting sidewalks, and had a root system that was encroaching on underground utilities. I also contacted one of the cities approved tree services and they came out and gave me a written estimate and an attachment confirming my concerns with the sidewalk and utilities.
