Chapel Hill, NC assigned this issue to Tanner Thompson

Tanner Thompson assigned this issue to Kiler Hamilton

Dear Chapel Hill Resident,
The Town of Chapel Hill Parks and Recreation Department routinely prunes and /or removes road-side vegetation within the town limits. The purpose of this maintenance is to provide adequate visibility along road edges and at intersections, and to prevent overhanging limbs / vegetation from contacting vehicles. The town has determined that a cut back of vegetation needs to be performed along the road frontage property to either provide an adequate sight line distance or remove vegetation that is causing an issue with vehicular or pedestrian traffic (sidewalks / along the street).
Any maintenance that is necessary will take place within the publicly owned right of way. Although publicly owned right of way varies from one street to the next, it typically extends 25 to 30 feet from the center of the road. The exact right of way line can be determined by inspecting a property’s deed or plat.
As a general policy, the Town removes as little vegetation within the public right of way as possible to fulfill its need to provide safe streets. The specific vegetation which needs to be pruned or re-moved along a certain length of roadway is dependent upon a number or variables. Examples of vegetation generally requiring more extensive pruning or removal include the following:
- Vegetation at intersections
- Vegetation along curves
- Vegetation that obstructs view of fire hydrants, signs, etc.
- Vegetation that interferes with safe street drainage
- Vegetation that leans precariously
Property owners are encouraged to take corrective action prior to arrival of the Town’s maintenance staff.
With respect to State streets within Town limits that are maintained by North Carolina Department of Transportation, we have no jurisdiction over the policies used in roadway maintenance. Likewise, utility companies often must complete pruning work in order to provide reliable services.
Property owners are required to obtain permission from the Town prior to performing future improvements (plantings, ETC.) on the right of way. This will allow both parties to work together to enhance the right of way and avoid future conflicts.
Thank you for your assistance in providing a safe and attractive right of way. If you have questions, please call me at 919-969-5152.
Sincerely,
Kiler Hamilton
Park Maintenance Supervisor
I have reviewed and closed this issue. If you feel this issue has not been resolved to your satisfaction, please contact us by phone. Public works solid waste management will collect the piles of pruned vegetation.