ShadeTreeCommission

Maintaining Our Village Canopy: The Perrysville Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission is a five-member board established by Chapter 905 of the Village Ordinances. It is dedicated to the care, preservation, and strategic planning of all trees and shrubs located on Village-owned property. Composed of three local citizens, a member of Council, and the Mayor, the Commission works to ensure our public spaces remain safe, healthy, and beautiful for all residents.

Core Responsibilities

• Oversight & Planning: Under Section 905.04, the Commission has the power to study, investigate, and recommend actions to Council or the Mayor regarding the planting, trimming, and removal of trees in public ways, streets, alleys, and parks.
• Safety & Aesthetics: The Commission holds the authority to regulate public greenery specifically to ensure community safety and preserve the visual character of public sites.
• Expert Consultation: To maintain high standards of care, the Commission is authorized to retain a professional arborist to act as a technical advisor.
• Enforcement: The Commission oversees the permit system and may declare any permit void if its terms are violated.

When to Contact the Commission

Per Section 905.05, residents must interact with the Commission in the following scenarios:

• Planting or Removing Trees: No person may plant or remove any tree or shrub on Village-owned property without first obtaining a written permit from the Commission. This permit will specify the size, species, and exact location allowed.
• Permit Applications: Applications should be directed to the Commission Chairman. Under Section 905.05, the Commission is required to meet and render a decision within 14 days of receiving your application.
• Reporting Damage: Under Section 905.06, authorization is required before performing any work—including cutting, carving, or transplanting—on public trees. Note that “public trees” include those in the lawn strip or curb strip between the sidewalk and the street.

Important Resident Note: While the Commission manages public property, Section 905.07 states that owners or occupants of private property bordering a street have a legal duty to prune their own trees. This ensures they do not obstruct streetlights, sidewalks, or the visibility of traffic signs. Failure to comply may result in the Village performing the work and assessing the costs to the owner.