[Girlcopper]

Originally Posted by Cobullymom

Remember that tree has been there WAY before the house, and obviously the house is still standing...

So? Its unsightly and why take the chance

[airstreamingypsy]

Originally Posted by pattycake!67

We have found a lovely home in Spanish Springs that we would like to purchase. There is only one BIG UNSIGHTLY PROBLEM, there is a huge oak tree in the front yard that we would like to remove. We would like to replace it with a more appropriate tree(s). Perhaps a Palm or two. We don’t think we will be able to live with the current tree situation. We know there are Village RULES / Deed Restrictions with regard to cutting down trees. Will getting permission be a major headache and time and should we just forego this property and look elsewhere? We easily could....
Your thoughts and experience would be greatly appreciated.

Look elsewhere, leave the tree alone. There are identical houses with no tree.

[Two Bills]

I love big old trees.

In other peoples gardens!

[sk450]

New law of 2019 says that the home owner must obtain an independent arborist report . This will over ride the villages arborist and allow you to remove the tree. You do not need to get a permit or permission from the ARC. Use a good company and have the arborist report before starting to remove the tree.

[newgirl]

Get everything in writing! Your agent should be able to ask the review committee

[SGR720]

Originally Posted by pattycake!67

We have found a lovely home in Spanish Springs that we would like to purchase. There is only one BIG UNSIGHTLY PROBLEM, there is a huge oak tree in the front yard that we would like to remove. We would like to replace it with a more appropriate tree(s). Perhaps a Palm or two. We don’t think we will be able to live with the current tree situation. We know there are Village RULES / Deed Restrictions with regard to cutting down trees. Will getting permission be a major headache and time and should we just forego this property and look elsewhere? We easily could....
Your thoughts and experience would be greatly appreciated.

You know there are Rules/Deed Restrictions just go to Community Standards and ask what the process entails before you make a decision. Each area of the Villages has their own set of restrictions. If having the tree is a deal breaker then I would walk away.

[stinky88]

pattycake67, I just sent you a private message that will be very helpful to you.

[MACH7SS]

Originally Posted by Lindaws

You are never allowed to cut down the Oak. ( I guess if it is dead you could get the ok)

Incorrect. I had a large Live Oak removed for cracking my sprinkler lines/heads and for lifting some of my pavers. I simply used the existing Florida law concerning tree removal.

New Florida Tree Law – Chapter 2019-155 – Florida Chapter ISA

[RuthA]

I understand it is a County ordinance. Not a Villages rule. You have to get permission from the County.

[ScottGo]

If you get rid of an oak tree, it's like killing a sacred cow. We got a 5,000 dollar fine in Pinellas where we used to live. Answer is DON'T touch it unless it it dead. Just not worth it.

[jjombrello]

I agree. I live on a lot with a huge oak tree and would not do it again. Next to a Weeping Willow, it is the dirtiest tree imaginable. Between acorns, squirrels, and leaves, you have to work your butt off to keep things looking half-way decent, let alone clean the clutter out of gutters. Look elsewhere!!

[graciegirl]

Originally Posted by ScottGo

If you get rid of an oak tree, it's like killing a sacred cow. We got a 5,000 dollar fine in Pinellas where we used to live. Answer is DON'T touch it unless it it dead. Just not worth it.

I think the new Florida law changed that. But as Bogie said, be sure to get all your ducks in line and don't listen to folks (like me) who don't know for sure.

I do know that having a large Live Oak tree removed and carried away is EXPENSIVE.

[vermonster]

Did you consider the shade the oak will provide in your yard and on your home. This is especially true during the 8 to 9 hot months of the year. Palms provide virtually no shade and require regular maintenance.

[Don5154]

Originally Posted by Bogie Shooter

Call Community Standards office and get the correct information not the opinions of TOTV posters.
VCDD Community Standards

Best advice ...too many people on here that have no clue but like to give their 2 cent even if they have no idea what they are talking about.

[bpascani]

I would hire an arborist to come out, go through the procedure of getting ARC (or whatever it's called) written approval before you are obligated to continue with the 'provisional' contract (based on the tree issue, and anything else, like inspection, ability to obtain insurance, etc). The ARC takes max of 2 weeks, depending on when you turn in your application. I think they meet every 2 wks or so