In this edition of “Ask Matt,” Hot Springs Village Associate Director of Public Services Matt Broom answers a question about a property owner fined for cutting down trees on their own property.
Resident: Someone I know was recently fined for cutting down some trees on their property. Several were dead already. Why were they fined?
Matt: Thanks for the question. The rules for tree cutting vary depending on the situation and are laid out below. These rules are in place to ensure that the aesthetics of our community are maintained. Hope this helps. Thanks.
3.13 Tree Cutting
A. Permit is required for the following, and trees must be marked with flagging tape, in conjunction with submitted application for onsite staff review:
i. Anything over 3” in diameter measured at 12” from the ground on improved lots over ½ acre.
ii. Anything over 3” in diameter measured at 12” from the ground on any sized unimproved lot.
iii. Tree cutting or improvements on common property.
B. No Permit required:
i. Improved Lots ½ acre or less
ii. Trees that are dead, dying, diseased, or a hazard to a dwelling (must be verified by POA staff)
iii. Any tree or bush under 3” in diameter measured at 12” from the ground.
Click here to contact the HSV Gazette.
Click here to join our private Hot Springs Village Property Owners Facebook group. Be sure to answer the entry questions.
Click here to visit the POA website – Explore the Village.
Our neighbor sold their home at the end of May to a man who lives out of town. I am concerned that something has happened to this new owner. No one has been to the house so the yard now is full of weeds. Anything we can do to make sure the yard gets the care that is needed and the new owner is okay?
Call HSV Police and ask for a welfare check.
Now that is clear as mud.
Does this rule apply to native trees only, or also to ornamental trees that were planted by the homeowner itself that have not worked out, are dying or are over growing their spot in the landscape?
Who does one calll after flagging tape has been put on the tree(s)?
Which Dept will make the thumbs up or thumbs down decision on the tree(s) removal? for this service
How long does one wait to get a decision? A day? A week? A month? A year?
Is the POA creating a new position for this service due to tornado/storm damage tree removal?
I don’t understand the reason for a different rule based on whether a lot is over a half acre. Can Matt enlighten us. Thanks