Homeowners associations are common in Northern Virginia, especially in communities like Burke. While living in an HOA has numerous benefits, it can also create confusion regarding what you can and can’t do. This can be especially true with the process of HOA tree removal and tree pruning.
In this article, we will answer some of the most common questions residents in HOAs have regarding tree removal and pruning. We’ll examine what requirements there may be for taking care of your trees, as well as who controls the trees on the common ground in an HOA.
PRO TIP: Want more information about tree pruning and removal? Check out some of our previous articles on the topics:
Key Takeaways
- Your HOA bylaws may restrict your ability to have a professional remove or trim your trees.
- An HOA board may examine a tree’s condition, location, risk of damaging property, and other factors when deciding whether to prune or remove it.
- Depending on the association’s bylaws, an HOA board may compel residents to trim or remove their trees.
- Trees in an HOA’s common areas are under the HOA board’s purview.
- HOA board members should look for a tree care company with an ISA Certified Arborist, positive reviews, appropriate insurance, and local experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About HOA Tree Removal and Pruning
Understanding your responsibilities and the requirements for taking care of your trees can be complicated, and we have the answers to all of your common questions.
Can I remove a tree on my property if I live in an HOA?
When you can remove a tree depends on your HOA’s bylaws. Every HOA, including popular ones located in Burke like Lakepointe and Cardinal Glen, has different regulations about when a resident can remove their trees.
Some HOAs have no restrictions on when you can remove a tree, while others have requirements for when a resident is allowed to remove a tree.
PRO TIP: Even if an HOA has no regulations regarding tree removal, you will still have to comply with local ordinances regarding tree removal and pruning. For instance, Fairfax County restricts large land disturbing activities of more than 2,500 square feet and requires a permit. Always check with your local municipality about any restrictions on removing or pruning a tree.
What might an HOA look at when determining if a tree can be removed?
Some requirements for when an HOA board will approve removing a tree typically include the following:
- Is the tree damaging any property?
- Is the tree posing a danger to property?
- Is the tree healthy and in good condition?
- Is the tree crowding out or limiting sun exposure to other plants?
- Is the tree prohibiting the view of other neighbors?
If an HOA board finds sufficient evidence that a tree poses a risk to property and homeowners, they will likely approve a homeowner removing a tree.
If you aren’t sure what the restrictions on landscaping and tree care are in your homeowners association, you can consult your handbook or guidelines. Alternatively, you can speak to your HOA board and ask them for guidance on any regulations.
Do I need a professional to help me remove a tree in an HOA?
While you can remove a small tree yourself without much difficulty, tree removal is generally best left to professionals. Removing trees is dangerous work, and homeowners across northern Virginia are injured or worse every year trying to remove a tree on their own.
Hiring a professional to conduct HOA tree removal or tree pruning will keep you safe and protect your property from damage during the process. Your HOA may also have regulations for homeowners to hire a professional for any tree care or landscaping work.
PRO TIP: For more information, read our previous article on why you should hire a professional tree care service.
Can an HOA Board force a homeowner to prune or remove a tree?
Depending on the bylaws of your HOA, the board may be able to compel you to prune a tree that has become unkempt and grown wildly. The board may also require you to remove the tree altogether if it is unhealthy and poses a risk to others. Before moving to an HOA neighborhood, always read the bylaws to properly understand what is expected of you as a homeowner.
Who cares for trees in common areas in an HOA?
Trees in the common areas of an HOA are under the purview of the HOA board. They will have the final say on whether the tree will be removed, how it should be removed, and whether they will plant a new tree.
What should HOA board members look for in a tree removal company?
It can be daunting if you are an HOA board member trying to decide on what tree care company to hire for HOA tree removal or pruning. With so many companies to choose from and so much terminology, it can be challenging to know which company is worth trusting with your trees. Some key factors to consider include:
- ISA Certified Arborist on Staff: An ISA Certified Arborist is a tree expert who has demonstrated expertise in tree care with a combination of practical experience and study. You can trust a Certified Arborist to follow all the best practices when caring for your trees.
- Proper Insurance: Tree work is inherently dangerous, even when a team follows all the correct standards and procedures. The tree care company you hire should be able to provide you with insurance documentation to give you peace of mind in the event of an accident.
- Positive Reviews: Always look for a company that is highly regarded and has a multitude of five-star reviews.
- Local Experience: A company with local experience will be able to better understand your trees than one with no local ties. Our trees and their concerns are unique in Northern Virginia, and you need a company that understands that.
Absolute Tree Can Help with Removing and Pruning Trees in HOAs
Understanding your rights regarding HOA tree removal and tree pruning and the best way to approach it can be complicated and stressful. When you need to remove a tree on your HOA property, whether it be in Burke or another community, the team at Absolute Tree is ready to help. We have the experience and equipment to handle tree removals that will leave your property aesthetically pleasing and won’t interfere with HOA bylaws.
If you need to have a tree removed, call us at 703-969-6207 or request an estimate online today to get started.
For the Absolute Best Tree Service in Northern Virginia, call Absolute Tree Today!
Author Profile: Ashley Davis
Over the last 19 years, Absolute Tree has grown a reputation as one of the premier tree service companies in the Northern Virginia areas. And there’s a good reason for this—we love trees and our passion for them shows. When you call on Absolute Tree for tree service, you aren’t just getting “some guys who cut down trees.” You’re hiring highly skilled arborists who understand the growth of trees and consider tree care an art form.
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