Certainly a start would be to talk with immediate neighbors about it and get their opinions. Occasionally there is some one who gets very emotional over the removal of trees.
But maybe not. My neighbor recently removed a huge palm tree from front yard. Not on city property. No tears shed by anyone, the tree was too big and an eyesore.
Certainly I'd run this by the city about removal before having it "die" or "disappear." Especially if you get backup from neighbors or tree pro who declares the tree diseased or unstable.
