First, different states and even different counties have different rules when it comes to tree removal. Some areas don’t even require a permit to remove a tree unless that tree is of some kind of historical importance. For example, if you live way out in the country and you need a sick 200-year-old oak taken down, you probably won’t need a permit. But if you live in a city, your arborist – you shouldn’t even think of taking down a large, old tree by yourself – might have to get all manner of permits and follow a book’s worth of rules and regulations. Here are some that you’ll need to understand.
The TVA Rules
Some of the tree removal rules that cover parts of Tennessee are the Tennessee Valley Authority Rules. The Tennessee Valley Authority was set up during the Depression to bring electric power and support the ecosystem of parts of Tennessee and six other Southern states. If you live in a place under the jurisdiction of the TVA, you’ll not only need permits to remove trees but also to remove other types of vegetation.
Rules for Cities
Different cities can have different rules and regulations when it comes to what happens to their trees. Your arborist not only needs permits, but the urban forester may also need to check whether your tree is in or near a protected zone such as a public right of way. Your tree may indeed be on public land, which you didn’t even suspect until the urban forester told you so. On the other hand, the city might require you to remove a tree on your property that’s dead, that’s badly damaged, that has a dangerous lean or that blocks the view or accessibility of a public road.
Your Homeowner’s Association
Your arborist may also be subject to the rules laid down by your homeowner’s association. If you think city rules and regs are strict, your HOA rules may be even more stringent. HOAs not only take safety into account, but they’re also quite concerned with aesthetics. They may make you get rid of that beloved apple tree because it’s unattractive according to their standards, and they don’t want fruit trees in people’s yards.
The Hawaii Rule
In Tennessee, you can trim your neighbor’s tree if it’s encroaching into your property and even sue them for damages. This is called the Hawaii Rule. However, your arborist needs to be careful not to touch the rest of the tree on your neighbor’s property. Doing that can be expensive.
The rules, regulations and permits that cover tree removal can change not only from state to state but also from municipality to municipality. It’s up to you to find a professional arborist who knows them. If you live in Lancaster, SC or a surrounding area and need tree removal services, make your first call to CBC Lawn & Tree.