Contents (Click To Jump)
- 1 What Are the Most Common Tree Issues in Hanover?
- 2 Does the City of Hanover Provide Any Assistance in Tree Removal Problems?
- 3 Who Is Responsible for Fallen Tree Removal in Hanover?
- 4 How Does the Soil Affect Trees in Hanover?
- 5 What if Dead Trees Are Near Power Lines in Hanover?
- 6 How Much Does Tree Removal Usually Cost in Hanover?
What Are the Most Common Tree Issues in Hanover?
The Spotted Lanternfly is the newest invasive pest to wreak havoc on the trees in Hanover. Having a significant impact on the agricultural industry in Pennsylvania, the fight is on in the Commonwealth to eradicate this non-native invader. Symptoms or signs of the pest include wilting or curling leaves, oozing sap, and a black mold substance found on decks, play equipment, and surrounding structures. If you see a Spotted Lanternfly or suspect an infestation of a tree on your property, you are encouraged to report your findings by calling 1-888-4BADFLY.
The Emerald Ash Borer is also devastating the ash trees commonly found in Hanover. The small emerald green beetle leaves an S-shaped trail on the trunk, along with D-shaped holes on the bark. Yellowing foliage and shoots growing from the tree trunk are tell-tale signs of infestation.
The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources reports that diseases like Oak Wilt and Beech Bark Disease are also destroying trees in the Hanover region.
Both pest infestation and disease can cause irreversible harm to a tree. Sometimes the only remedy is removing the tree to stop the spread of further destruction to other trees on your property.
Does the City of Hanover Provide Any Assistance in Tree Removal Problems?
In 1966, the Shade Tree Commission was established to oversee the maintenance and removal of all existing trees in Hanover. Its mission is to promote safety and adhere to conservation standards.
A permit is required to remove a tree from a public street or right-of-way in Hanover. Homeowners are not allowed to trim or prune trees located on public property without prior approval. The Public Works Department maintains all street trees and will only cover the cost of tree removal located on public streets and right-of-way.
Homeowners can hire a private contractor for tree removal on their property but must first receive a permit from the Tree Commission before work begins. Homeowners are responsible for all costs associated with tree removal on their property. Hanover does not provide financial assistance. At the time of application, residents must provide the name of the professional hired to take down the tree along with proof of their contractor’s insurance.
The Shade Tree Commission also requires a description of the tree being removed, including its species and reason for removal. Hanover has an annual program that provides a limited number of street trees that residents are encouraged to plant between the sidewalk and curb of their property.
Who Is Responsible for Fallen Tree Removal in Hanover?
When a tree falls unexpectedly, it can cause substantial damage to surrounding structures and personal property. Who will pay for removing the tree depends on where the tree fell and who retains ownership. The following are some guidelines based on varying situations to help you better understand your responsibilities in Hanover regarding tree removal.
If you’re a homeowner?
If a tree on your property falls, you are responsible for having it safely removed. If you incur damages, contact your insurance provider to file a claim. As long as the tree has no evidence of prior disease or infestation, your claim should be approved, and you will only be held liable for the pre-arranged deductible on your homeowner’s insurance policy.
If you’re a renter?
Renters in Pennsylvania are not liable for tree removal for a rental property. All costs are the sole responsibility of the landlord. Your only obligation as a tenant is to inform the landlord of any potential problems that may exist with trees on the property. This will allow them to take care of any issues before a tree falls and causes substantial damage.
If you’re a landlord?
As a landlord in Hanover, you are obliged to follow all landlord laws pertaining to rental properties in the State of Pennsylvania. Landlords are responsible for all costs associated with tree removal on a rental property. Tenants cannot be held liable for sharing the burden of cost. If a tree falls, a landlord must immediately remove any imminent threat so the renters can maintain a safe habitat.
If you’re a neighbor?
If a tree belonging to your neighbor falls on your property and causes damage, your insurance company will process the claim. Vice versa, if a tree located on your property falls on a neighbor’s property and causes damage, their insurance company will handle the claim.
Remember, if there is any sign of disease or injury to the tree before it falls, insurance companies can deny the claim. It is important to inspect and maintain all trees on your property to ensure the safety of both you and your neighbor.
How Does the Soil Affect Trees in Hanover?
The official state soil is named Hazleton and exists in more than half the counties in Pennsylvania. It represents the diverse terrains found throughout the state that support agriculture, forestry, and mining.
Hazleton soil is well-drained, with water quickly running through the sandy loam texture. Some areas of the state contain very stony soil. In Hanover, the earth is deep and loose, providing a prime environment for healthy trees to thrive.
Does Weather Affect Tree Health in Hanover?
Climate plays a contributing factor in sustaining healthy trees in Hanover. The annual precipitation in the region is approximately 48 inches annual, with a mean air temperature of 51ºF. Most of the year is frost-free, with changing seasons accounting for quarterly changes in weather patterns.
Extreme weather such as tornadoes and hurricanes is rare in Pennsylvania. However, heavy winds, torrential rain, and ice storms can bring down the sturdiest of trees.
What if Dead Trees Are Near Power Lines in Hanover?
Residents that are concerned about tree branches touching electrical wires are advised to contact Met-Ed at 800-545-7741. The power company will send out a service crew to assess the situation and determine the best course of action.
Met-Ed has a specific policy on tree removal that states the following: “For fast-growing trees like silver maples, willow, and sycamore, the repeated trimmings required to keep limbs clear of power lines increase tree decay and make trees more susceptible to disease. When these types of trees are placed directly under or near power lines, removal is the best solution.”
Homeowners are responsible for all costs associated with tree removal from their private property. Met-Ed will arrange for a temporary disruption of service if the tree is located between the pole and the customer’s home.
PPL Electric Utilities customers can get assistance by calling 800-342-5775. The power company works year-round to remove hazardous trees surrounding service lines. If a tree is outside the right-of-way, PPL will seek permission from the property owner to remove the tree to prevent service disruptions or dangerous conditions. If a homeowner refuses to have a tree removed and it causes subsequent damage, they could be held liable for the cost of repair to the power line.
How Much Does Tree Removal Usually Cost in Hanover?
The average cost for removing a tree from your Hanover property is $622, ranging anywhere between $150 to $2,000. If the tree has already fallen, prices will be approximately 50 percent less since the tree is already down, reducing the amount of work required from tree crews. Several other factors also play into the price of tree removal costs in Hanover.
Size of the Tree
The larger the tree, the higher the price tag. It just stands to reason that taller trees require more time and effort to bring them down safely. Often, special equipment such as cranes and bucket trucks are necessary for safe removal. Unfortunately, this will increase the final bill, but sometimes it is unavoidable.
Trees are measured in both height and trunk diameter. The following prices, while not exact, should give you a better idea of what to expect when removing a tree in Hanover.
- Small Tree – up to 30 feet: $150 to $590
- Medium Tree – 30 feet to 60 feet: $600 to $1,200
- Large Tree – 60 feet to 80 feet: $1,200 to $1,900
- X-Large Tree – 80 feet and up: $2,000+
Location of the Tree/Accessibility
A tree located in an easy-to-access area of your property will be easier for crews to reach, and in turn, lower the cost of your final bill. Trees obstructed by the neighboring property, gates, fences, and vehicles will make it harder for crews to get the necessary equipment to the job site. It will also be harder to remove the tree from the yard, increasing the cost of tree removal.
Condition of the Tree
As mentioned, if the tree has already fallen, the cost is considerably less. On the contrary, if a tree is diseased and showing signs of deterioration, the price could be higher. Tree crews will need to take extra precautions to ensure their own safety and protect surrounding structures, fences, and vehicles.
