More than half of DFW homeowners live in communities governed by a homeowners association. And most HOAs have rules about trees — what you can remove, what you must maintain, and what requires approval before work begins.

Violating HOA tree rules can result in fines, required remediation, and disputes with neighbors. Here's what DFW homeowners need to know.

While every HOA has its own CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions), most DFW HOAs include some version of these tree-related rules:

Clearance requirements. Most HOAs require homeowners to maintain clearance over sidewalks (typically 8 feet) and driveways (typically 10 feet). Branches hanging below these heights are a violation.

Dead branch removal. Many HOAs require homeowners to remove dead branches within a specified timeframe — often 30 to 90 days of the branch dying. Failure to do so can result in the HOA hiring a contractor and billing the homeowner.

Tree removal approval. Most HOAs require written approval before removing any tree above a certain size (often 4–6 inches in trunk diameter). Removing a tree without approval can result in fines and a requirement to replant.

Maintenance standards. Some HOAs specify that trees must be maintained in a "healthy and attractive" condition — a vague standard that can be interpreted broadly.

Stump removal. Many HOAs require stumps to be ground or removed within a specified period after tree removal.

If your HOA requires approval for tree removal, the process typically involves:

1. Submit a written request to your HOA board or management company. Include the location of the tree, the reason for removal, and any supporting documentation (photos, professional assessment).

2. Wait for approval. HOA boards typically meet monthly; approval can take 2–6 weeks depending on your HOA's process.

3. Get a professional assessment. Many HOAs require a written assessment from a qualified tree service confirming that the tree is dead, diseased, or poses a hazard. Tree Crew can provide this documentation.

4. Complete the work and document it. After removal, provide the HOA with documentation that the work was completed, including photos and a receipt from the tree service.

If your HOA has required you to remove or trim a tree that you believe is healthy and not a hazard, you have options:

• Request a professional assessment. A written assessment from a qualified tree service can support your position that the tree is healthy and doesn't need to be removed.
• Appeal to the HOA board. Most HOAs have an appeal process for disputed violations.
• Consult a real estate attorney. If the dispute is significant, a real estate attorney familiar with Texas HOA law can advise you on your rights.

One of the most common HOA tree issues in DFW involves trees that straddle property lines or whose branches overhang a neighbor's property. In Texas:

• You have the right to trim branches that overhang your property, up to the property line
• You are not responsible for damage caused by a neighbor's healthy tree that falls on your property (though your insurance may cover it)
• You may be liable if a tree on your property that you knew was dead or hazardous falls and damages a neighbor's property

If you have a tree dispute with a neighbor in an HOA community, Tree Crew can provide a professional assessment and documentation to support your position.

Tree Crew regularly works with DFW homeowners navigating HOA tree requirements. We can provide:

• Written professional assessments for HOA approval requests
• Documentation of completed work for HOA records
• Guidance on HOA-compliant trimming standards
• Fast turnaround to meet HOA deadlines

Call (972) 999-3627 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.