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Rosedale residents seek backyard tree removal; board defers until pool-permit outcome
Summary
Homeowners at 105 Rosedale Court asked the Summerville Tree Protection Board to remove a single backyard pine they said threatens their house and prevents installing a pool. The board deferred a decision until the applicants obtain a pool permit so the site plan can clarify impacts and mitigation.
Homeowners at 105 Rosedale Court asked the Summerville Tree Protection Board on Monday to allow the removal of a single backyard pine, saying the tree leans toward their bedroom and prevents them from using the yard or installing a pool.
The couple told the board they and their grandchildren cannot safely or comfortably use the yard because of the tree canopy and abundant pine cones. “We just want one tree gone so that we can put a pool in and our grandchildren can enjoy our backyard,” one applicant said during the public comment period.
The board agreed the applicants’ loss of enjoyment is understandable but noted the tree appears structurally healthy. Board members said the town’s permitting process must be allowed to run first because a pool site plan would show whether removal is necessary or whether alternative pool placement and mitigation are possible. A staff member (Justin) explained that when a pool permit is filed it will be routed to the board for related tree impacts, but that a building permit does not guarantee board approval of tree removal.
A board member moved to defer consideration of the removal request until the applicants obtain and present the pool permit; the motion was seconded and carried by voice vote. The applicants were told to return with a permit or revised site plan for the board’s next meeting.
Why it matters: The decision balances private property use and safety concerns against the board’s mandate to protect healthy canopy. The board’s requirement to see a pool-site plan before approving removal preserves options for mitigation and alternative placement.
What’s next: The applicants will pursue a pool permit; the board will reconsider the tree-removal request only after reviewing that permit and any arborist or site-plan details submitted by the homeowners.
