Contents (Click To Jump)
- 1 What Are the Most Common Tree Issues in Arlington?
- 2 Does the City of Arlington Provide Any Assistance in Tree Removal Problems?
- 3 Who Is Responsible for Fallen Tree Removal in Arlington?
- 4 How Does the Soil Affect Trees in Arlington?
- 5 Does Weather Affect Tree Health in Arlington?
- 6 What If Dead Trees Are Near Power Lines in Arlington?
- 7 How Much Does Tree Removal Usually Cost in Arlington?
What Are the Most Common Tree Issues in Arlington?
Arlington, VA boasts a gorgeous urban forest with as much as 31.2% tree cover throughout the metro area. The tree species vary widely across the region, but the most common are flowering dogwood, white oak, and red maple. With so many trees in the area, it is no surprise that there are a number of challenges to overcome, from pests and diseases to human-caused issues. Below are some of the most common tree problems in Arlington.
Diseases and Fungi
A variety of diseases and fungi can affect the abundant tree population in Arlington. Butternut canker, chestnut blight, dogwood anthracnose, and Dutch elm disease have caused significant damage and tree loss over the past century. They continue to be a potential problem for many of the trees in the region, including butternut trees, American and European chestnut, flowering and Pacific dogwoods, and native elms.
Pests and Parasites
The same climate that encourages verdant arboreal growth can also invite unwanted guests in the form of pests and parasites, that can harm trees in the Arlington region. Some of the most damaging local insects include the emerald ash bore, gypsy moth, hemlock wooly adelgid, and southern pine beetle. According to Arlington’s 2016 iTree Ecosystem Analysis, these pests present an extensive threat to a wide variety of trees, including ash, hemlock, pine, loblolly, spruce, and many others.
Weather, Stress, and Decline
Pests and fungi are often a secondary sign of problems initially caused by stress due to storms, drought, heat, and other extreme weather impacts. In addition to increasing extreme weather, the flow of water has altered, moving both above ground and underground streams to different locations, and stressing the local trees. Recently, white oaks and chestnut oaks in the Arlington area have succumbed to oak decline, a phenomenon that has not been fully explained. The general consensus is that oak decline is caused by a variety of factors, including stress and human-caused damage.
Human-Caused Problems
Construction is one of the most common causes of tree problems in Arlington. Trees are damaged when the roots, bark, or branches come in contact with drilling, digging, and other dynamic construction processes. Even if construction occurs adjacent to your property, damage to the roots of your trees can cause decline and die-offs.
Another human-caused issue is the introduction of invasive plant species. The Arlington area is host to a variety of non-native plants that can damage and displace native trees. Over time, these plants can inhibit tree growth and reduce native tree propagation.
Does the City of Arlington Provide Any Assistance in Tree Removal Problems?
When a tree becomes injured or diseased, dead branches can present a hazard to people and property alike. If a tree on your private property is damaged or diseased, you may need a permit to remove the tree, depending on the area. For most of Arlington’s neighborhoods, no permit is required. However, if you plan to remove a tree with a diameter greater than 15″ in a Local Historic District (LHD), you must have a permit from the Historic Affairs and Landmark Review Board (HALRB). In addition, for trees in Resource Protection Areas (RPAs) within 100 feet of a stream, you will need a permit from Arlington’s Department of Environmental Services. Fortunately, if a tree is dead or hazardous, the permit process can be expedited.
If you are concerned about a tree on public land in Arlington, you can submit a question to or request for maintenance from Arlington County. The Arlington Department of Parks and Recreation is responsible for tree maintenance and upkeep on county land, while state and federal agencies handle tree maintenance on state and federal property.
For trees on private property, you should seek the assistance of a licensed arborist who can help you remove tree branches and whole trees safely.
Who Is Responsible for Fallen Tree Removal in Arlington?
According to the Arlington County Trees & Shrubs Ordinance, the County is solely responsible for the pruning, maintenance, or removal of trees on public property. Any treatment of trees on county property must be approved by the county manager and must be in accordance with the County’s tree guidelines. When the tree is on private property, the responsibility depends on property ownership.
If you’re a homeowner?
If you own the property on which the tree exists, you are responsible for the pruning, maintenance, and removal of all trees. It is important to perform regular inspections and maintenance in order to catch diseases, infestations, and other stressors that may compromise the health of your tree. In the event that you notice dead branches, it is critical that you have them removed as soon as possible in order to prevent damage or injury from falling branches or trees.
If you’re a renter?
Your responsibility as a renter depends largely on the terms of your lease agreement. Although lease agreements, especially for single-family residences, may stipulate that the renter performs basic landscaping, this typically includes regular maintenance, such as lawn mowing and shrub trimming. Larger projects, such as tree trimming and removal, typically fall outside the purview of a lease agreement and are generally the landlord’s responsibility.
If you’re a landlord?
If you are a landlord, your responsibility for tree trimming and removal may be indicated in the lease agreement. It is important to note that even if your agreement requires your tenant to handle standard landscape maintenance, tree trimming and removal are often excluded due to their costly and dangerous nature.
If you’re a neighbor?
If a tree on your neighbor’s property is dangerously damaged or diseased, it is important to contact the property owner and notify them of the danger. Since the tree is not rooted on your property, you do not have the right to trim or remove the tree, so be sure to advise your neighbor in writing as soon as possible, especially if it presents a hazard to people or property. Keep in mind that removing trees or branches from your neighbor’s property may be considered property damage or trespassing. Be sure to seek legal counsel before taking any action if you are having trouble with a neighbor’s tree.
How Does the Soil Affect Trees in Arlington?
The soil in Northern Virginia tends to be a mixture of clay, sand, and loam. However, there is a wide range of soil types throughout Arlington County. To determine the type of soil on your property, you can consult the USDA Soil Survey of Arlington County. With this information, you can determine whether new and existing trees on your property are in the right soil.
Soil types vary widely, so it is no surprise that some plants prefer certain soil characteristics over others. For example, certain trees prefer acidic soil and will not thrive if the soil is too alkaline. Water drainage and retention are also affected by soil composition and consistency. Too much water can be just as bad as too little water, especially with the heavy rains common in the Arlington region. It is therefore important to do a soil test before planting your trees to prevent problems in the long run.
Does Weather Affect Tree Health in Arlington?
Arlington’s high humidity and subtropical heat create an ideal climate for arboreal vegetation. Protected on the West by the Blue Mountains and moderated by the ocean, Arlington’s climate experiences generally moderate temperatures, from highs in the 40s in January to an average high of 88 in July. Although the temperatures are pleasant for trees, Arlington has its share of storms, including heavy rain, high winds, and tornadoes. Its proximity to the ocean makes the region susceptible to tropical cyclones and hurricanes, though it is far enough north that direct hits by hurricanes are rare. Strong storms can cause wind damage, flooding, and lightning strikes which can down limbs and even entire trees.
While Arlington typically maintains a mild subtropical temperature, it is far enough north to experience winter weather with lows in the 20s, and sometimes, snow from December to March. Early blooming trees may be susceptible to late freezes and should be monitored for damage in the event of a late spring freeze.
What If Dead Trees Are Near Power Lines in Arlington?
Trees are a serious danger to power lines. If you notice a damaged, dead, or downed trees within 10 feet of an overhead power line, contact Dominion Energy as soon as possible. According to the Virginia Overhead High Voltage Line Safety Act, only Dominion and their contractors are permitted to be within 10 feet of overhead power lines. The area is typically delineated by easements that provide easy access for tree trimmers and other maintenance crews so that they can keep the power lines free of branches, dead trees, and other debris. Dominion Energy is regulated by the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC).
How Much Does Tree Removal Usually Cost in Arlington?
Tree removal in Arlington varies widely depending on the type of tree, its size, and condition, as well as its location and accessibility. Rates typically range from $250 to over $1,000, and you can expect many arborists to charge more for complete stump removal.
Type, Size, and Condition of Your Tree
If you need a small apple or cherry tree removed, you will pay much less than you would for a larger maple or oak. Hardwood trees with many large branches, thick bark, or dense wood will be more expensive to remove. The tree’s condition must also be taken into account, as large dead branches or tall trees require the use of more complex removal equipment, such as cranes.
Tree Location and Accessibility
If your tree is easily accessible, your arborist can remove it more quickly with fewer tools. If it is located in or around a waterway, surrounded by buildings, or otherwise difficult to access, you can expect to pay more for the removal service.
Stump Removal
While you may think that stump removal is part of a tree removal service, it is often not included in the estimate. Stump removal can increase your costs by hundreds of dollars, so be sure it is added to your quote.