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Stump grinding rules: HOAs, permits and city trees
A stump on your own lot usually needs no permit. Check your HOA, and call the city before touching a tree in the right-of-way.
Who to ask
| Situation | Check with |
|---|---|
| Stump on your own lot | Usually no permit. Read your HOA rules if you have one. |
| Tree strip between sidewalk and street | The city, since this is often public right-of-way |
| Under or near power lines | The utility |
| Historic or protected area | The local board before removal |
HOAs
Some HOAs ask for notice before tree work or require approval for changes to the lawn. Send them a short note with the date and the crew's name.
Rules change
City and HOA rules change. Confirm the current requirement with the office itself, not from a web page, including this one.
Send the form and a crew that works your area will call with a price. Free, and you can say no.
Questions
Do I need a permit?
Rarely for a stump on your own lot. The city and HOA are the ones to confirm with.