Rldgemont Subdivision Common Ground Tree Removal Policy
This Policy was established in the fall of 2011 and updated in the Spring of 2026 to address the confusion and inconsistencies that have surrounded decisions whether or not to remove dead or dying trees that are on the common ground and may or may not represent a threat to homeowners’ property; where the financial responsibilities lie for a tree that has fallen onto a resident’s property and to bring into alignment best practices for woodland management.
Step 1: Determine Where the Tree Is Rooted
When an identified tree is dead, dying, fallen, or otherwise of concern, the first step is to determine whose property it sits on.
- The resident and/or trustees should mark the boundary markers designating property lines in a way that is easily visible for inspection.
- One or more trustees will visit the property to determine whether the tree is on the resident’s property, the common ground, or County property.
- The applicable section below then governs.
Section A: The Tree Is Rooted on the Resident’s Property
- Tree removal is the resident’s responsibility. Ridgemont will not pay for the removal of any part of the tree.
Section B: The Tree Is Rooted on County Property
- St. Louis County is responsible for the area between the sidewalk and the street. In these instances, the resident should contact the County to arrange tree removal. Ridgemont will not be involved.
Section C: The Tree Is Rooted on the Common Ground
Once a tree is confirmed to be on the common ground, the trustees will assess whether it poses a risk to property and how it should be managed.
- If the tree does not pose a risk to any home or property, it will be left alone to let nature take its course. For example, a 50-foot tree standing 100 feet from the nearest house cannot cause property damage if it falls and will not be removed.
- If the tree is close enough to damage property if it falls, Ridgemont will pay to have enough of the tree removed to eliminate that risk. The portion cut down will be cut into smaller pieces and left on the common ground to decompose over time. Tree debris, such as small limbs, will be removed.
- Trees that have died or are dying and pose a risk of damaging surrounding trees or other elements of the common ground will be removed if deemed appropriate by a licensed arborist.
- If a tree on the common ground falls onto a resident’s property, Ridgemont will pay to have it removed from the property and moved to the common ground to decompose.
- The remaining portion of any tree on the common ground will be left in place to decompose. Leaving the tree benefits the environment, supports wildlife, and aids the re-establishment of common ground.
- Ridgemont will only pay to remove enough of a tree to eliminate potential property damage, and to cut parts into smaller pieces to be left on or moved to the common ground to decompose.
- No resident or other party may remove, cut, or alter any tree on the common ground without the prior consent and involvement of the Board of Trustees. Common ground is owned by the community as a whole, and decisions about its trees rest with the Board on behalf of all residents.