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Resident urges review of VDOT right-of-way tree-trimming policy after subcontractor removed small plantings
Summary
A Cumberland resident told supervisors Aug. 25 that state highway subcontractors are removing small ornamental trees and plantings in the right-of-way under a policy that trims anything under six inches in diameter.
A resident told the Board of Supervisors on Aug. 25 that VDOT subcontractors are removing vegetation in county right-of-way — including small ornamental trees and plantings — under a policy that he said treats anything under six inches in diameter as removable. Jack Deaton (spoke as a resident) said the change from local VDOT crews to larger subcontractors has left property owners surprised to find plants removed and debris left behind. He said there is a process to be placed on a "no maintenance" list but expressed low confidence that the field crews receive and follow those exceptions. County maintenance staff confirmed that tree removal along state right-of-way is contractor work and that contractors operate under right-of-way rules. Staff said they were not aware of a routine ability to skip trimming where homeowners maintain the area and offered to follow up with VDOT to clarify how exceptions and the "no maintenance" list are applied. No board action was taken; staff said they would follow up with VDOT and communicate options for property owners who wish to avoid right-of-way trimming.
