The HOA board receives quite a few questions on the street trees. This page is intended to answer all your questions. If you still have a question after reviewing this document feel free to contact the board as we want to do everything we can to protect the trees in Mountain Gate.
Can I remove a tree?
If you want to remove a tree in your yard that is NOT one of the maple street trees you may do so after contacting the ACC and getting approval. If this is a street tree you will need to contact the board to get approval and come up with a replacement plan. Tree removal will only be approved if it is diseased and potentially going to cause damage to a structure or was severely damaged in a storm. The street tree must be replaced on the timeline given by the board.
What is the proper way to maintain and trim the trees?
The HOA has provided a complete document here on best practices for maintaining the health and beauty of the street trees. If you have questions contact the board or a professional arborist.
What do I do if the tree roots are pushing up the sidewalk?
Work with a professional arborist to help remove the roots and work with a professional concrete expert to fix the concrete in question. This is a scenario that the board will not approve the removal of a tree as there are better options.
The HOA Board approved the replacement of the tree. Which species of tree do I buy?
All Mountain Gate trees need to be replaced with Acer platanoides also known as a Norway Maple. It is important NOT to get the columnar or Krimson King varieties as these will not match the maples in Mountain Gate. Ensure that the name of the tree is just “Acer platanoides” as there are other varieties and blends of other trees.
When is the best time to plant the tree?
The trees ideally will need to be planted when they are dormant. The best times are in the fall after the leaves have fallen and in the spring before the trees flower. It is possible to transplant it in the winter although it is more difficult with the cold or frozen ground. Please work with the HOA to determine the best timeline to plant this tree. The trees can be purchased at a local home and garden store although we advise that you have it planted by a professional.
Can I “top” the maple trees?
No. Topping the maple trees in Mountain Gate is not allowed and will result in a fine or requirement for you to replace the tree on your property at your expense. See the tree trimming guide for information on proper trimming techniques and why it is important not to top the tree.
Who is responsible for the maintenance of the street trees?
The homeowner whose property the tree sits on is responsible for the care and maintenance of the tree. The HOA does not maintain street trees.
How high do I need to trim the branches?
The branches need to be trimmed high enough such that garbage and utility vehicles can drive under them without issue. If you’re seeing tree debris on garbage day that is a great indicator that you need to trim the branches higher than they currently are. Please reference this guide on tree trimming.