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Tree board approves removal of mature maple at 8179 Harrison Boulevard with replacement condition
Summary
The Chesapeake Beach Tree Board on June 3 approved a homeowner’s permit to remove a large maple at 8179 Harrison Boulevard, contingent on replanting and a six-month replacement timeline backed by a fine if unmet.
The Chesapeake Beach Tree Board on June 3 approved a permit allowing homeowner Darryl Collins to remove a mature maple at 8179 Harrison Boulevard, with the condition that the tree be replaced with either one medium/large tree or three small trees within six months or face a $1,000 fine.
The board said the town planner’s report found the tree to be healthy but that submitted follow-up photos show roots encroaching on the driveway and possibly the house. Chair Ken, a member of the Tree Board, said he visited the property and noted branches were “brushing up against the windows” and that the root system appeared to be “tearing up the front yard.”
The board’s recommendation follows the town’s Chapter 2-63 urban forest ordinance, which requires permits for protected trees and calls for replacement planting when a protected tree is removed. The planner’s report recommended replacement either by one medium-to-large tree or by three small trees to maintain canopy.
Homeowner Darryl Collins told the board he has lived at the address since 1999 and said pruning had been done about three or four years earlier. “The intent was to remove the tree,” Collins said, citing concerns that the tree presented a property-damage risk during storms.
Ryan, representing Spencer’s Tree Service, told the board he was not a certified arborist but said from his experience “the roots will continue to grow, and I do believe the tree could get larger.” Tree Board member Sue Alexander said she had viewed the property and that pruning might address some issues but agreed the root encroachment posed an ongoing concern.
Tree Board member Kathleen Burrell moved to approve the board’s recommendation; the motion was seconded and approved by the members present. The board indicated the six-month replacement timeline begins when the homeowner receives the town’s formal letter documenting the permit and conditions.
The board will forward its recommendation to Sharon in the town office for issuance of the formal permit letter and timeline.
